Lana Del Rey Calls out Music Critic Ann Powers

With the release of her newest album, Norman Fucking Rockwell, came tons of reviews however, Lana Del Rey decided to voice her opinion of one unfavorable review by the esteemed music critic Ann Powers. The indepth review she wrote for NPR compared her to Joni Mitchell saying that aspects of Lana’s project felt “uncooked.”

The artist aired her grievances on Twitter writing to the journalist, “here’s a little sidenote on your piece – I don’t even relate to one observation you made about the music. There’s nothing uncooked about me. To write about me is nothing like it is to be with me. Never had a persona. Never needed one. Never will.” 

She continued stating, “Don’t call yourself a fan like you did in the article and don’t count your editor one either – I may never have made a bold political or cultural statements before – because my gift is the warmth I live my life with and the self reflection I share generously.” 

Many writers have been defending Powers and her integrity as a music critic saying that Lana’s comments were immature and uncalled for. Author Sady Doyle wrote, “(1) Being reviewed is a sign of being taken seriously, (2) Having one of the nation’s foremost critics write an essay on your seriousness is an induction into a cannon, (3) Powers wrote that the lyrics on one song were ‘vague’ and ‘uncooked,’ which, bluntly, they are.” 

Given Lana’s past critiques, which would typically trash her works, people are surprised she spoke out over one measly comment. Joshua Bote, a journalist for USA Today and Paper Magazine, came for Power’s defense as well writing, “I can understand [Lana] being wary of any music critics, seeing as her whole career has been unduly scrutinized by critics (mostly men), but to come for Ann Powers!? One of the most vital music journalists in the game?! For an essay that’s smart and lucid and kind?!” 

Lana has yet to respond to the backlash that is currently a trending topic on Twitter, but Ann Powers did come out with a statement thanking everyone for the support. “I really appreciate all the love for my @lanadelrey piece, must add, everything I do at @nprmusic is better because @jocobganz checks and protects. #editorsmatter,” she wrote.