Katy Perry takes off her clothes and gets criticism
Katy Perry's comeback single "Woman's World" and its accompanying video have received a lot of criticism. Now, all hopes are pinned on her new album. The singer is promoting it with plenty of skin.
It's been four years since Katy Perry released her last album, "Smile". Fans were initially thrilled when the singer announced her sixth studio album, "143". It soon became clear that the 39-year-old isn't just aiming for a musical comeback, but also a reinvented image. Perry has been flaunting her newly toned body in revealing outfits during the promo phase for the first single, "Woman's World".
But Perry has outdone herself with the reveal of her album cover. Posing in a black latex outfit that's high-necked but otherwise extremely revealing, Perry shows off her bare stomach and almost bare breast, with only a black star covering what Instagram would otherwise censor. The latex clings to her curves like a second skin.
This steamy snapshot is an exclusive cover photo for a limited "143" edition, Perry wrote on Instagram, crediting British photographer Jack Bridgland.
"Is your only artistic expression nudity now?"
Many followers find the photo sexy, but there's also criticism in the comments. After the first single "Woman's World" was widely panned ("What a backward, warmed-over mess is this?") and Perry's collaboration with controversial producer Dr. Luke, whom singer Kesha has accused of rape, also caused controversy, many Perry fans seem to be growing tired of the excessive focus on her appearance - they're demanding new music.
"Is your only artistic expression nudity now?" or "What happened to the powerful women's anthems we all loved? I'm very disappointed, and I'm sure many others feel the same. Showing off your great body is just a small part of who you are. What happened, Katy?" Many followers accuse Perry of preaching feminism and female empowerment, but sexualizing herself with photos like these for men.
"Just release your music already!" sums up one frustrated fan's current dissatisfaction.
Katy Perry seemed unfazed by the criticism, responding to a comment with, "♪ I'm not going to lie ♪, I love pushing boundaries and celebrating my body." She continued, "My art has always been a reflection of who I am and what I stand for, and I believe that celebrating our bodies is a form of empowerment."
