Earlier this year, amidst a storm of accusations against Diddy for sex trafficking and other heinous crimes, the pop sensation boldly unveiled a poignant lyric revision. Kesha, with unwavering resolve, announced her intention to breathe new life into her chart-topping anthem "TiK ToK," transforming the once-innocent "like P. Diddy" refrain into a fiery "fuck P. Diddy," echoing the explosive allegations levied against the media tycoon.
Released in 2010, "TiK ToK" remains an enduring testament to Kesha's artistic prowess, dominating the Billboard Hot 100 for an impressive nine weeks. In its original iteration, she sang with vim and vigor, "Wake up in the morning, feeling like P. Diddy." However, during her powerful Coachella collaboration with Reneé Rapp in April, she fearlessly altered the lyrics, bellowing, "Wake up in the morning feeling like, fuck P. Diddy!" This audacious move was a poignant nod to the mounting allegations against Sean "Diddy" Combs, who's been embroiled in multiple lawsuits this year, accused of rape, sexual assault, and under investigation for sex trafficking.
Reflecting on the evolution of her hit, Kesha shared a heartfelt message on social media, reminiscing, "TiK ToK was the maiden voyage of my voice and name into the world. I crafted it with joy and whimsy, a reflection of my own elation and a wish for others to feel the same. What fills me with pride is that, despite everything, this song still evokes those same emotions within me, a timeless connection I aspire for us all to share."
She delved deeper, acknowledging the song as "a fleeting glimpse into my youthful naivety, wild abandon, and playful spirit. This anthem immortalizes a facet of myself that I cherish deeply, and now realize I must safeguard fiercely. The world has undergone a profound transformation, and so have I."
Kesha credited Rapp for inspiring the lyric change, expressing her unequivocal love for the idea and confirming its permanence. "I eagerly await the day I can legally re-record it, ensuring that my beloved firstborn stands as a beacon for fiercely guarding our innate joy and unbridled fun, both within ourselves and in others," she wrote. "The journey may have been fraught with chaos, but the joy continues to ride high."
