Cher Lloyd Pressured to Exploit Justin Bieber's Fame for U.S. Success
British singer, Cher Lloyd, revealed that her record label once suggested she leverage Justin Bieber's fame to boost her U.S. success, highlighting the pressures young female artists face in the music industry.
In a recent interview, British singer, Cher Lloyd, disclosed that during the early stages of her career, her record label suggested she leverage Justin Bieber's popularity to boost her own success in the United States. This recommendation came when Lloyd was seeking financial support for her debut album, "Sticks & Stones," released in 2011. The label declined her request for promotional funding and instead proposed that she attend clubs frequented by Bieber to establish a connection with him.
Industry Pressures on Young Female Artists
At the time of this proposal, Lloyd was a teenager and already in a committed relationship with her now-husband, Craig Monk. She expressed feeling undervalued by the label's suggestion to associate with a more famous individual rather than investing directly in her talent. Additionally, Lloyd revealed that her team advised her to keep her impending marriage as a secret, fearing it might hinder her marketability in the music industry.
Lloyd's experience highlights a broader issue within the music industry, where young female artists often face pressure to conform to certain images or associations to achieve success. This can include suggestions to form relationships with more prominent figures or present themselves in a way that aligns with market trends, sometimes at the expense of their personal values or relationships.
Cher Lloyd in The X Factor, a few years after the suggestion she recieved. Photo: Ok! Magazine.
A Call for Change in the Music Industry
Beyond the challenges with her record label, Lloyd has been candid about her personal struggles, including battling postnatal depression following the birth of her second child in 2023. She described experiencing severe anxiety, loneliness, and intrusive thoughts during this period. By sharing her story, Lloyd aims to raise awareness about mental health issues and the pressures faced by women in the music industry.
Lloyd's revelations underscore the need for a cultural shift within the music industry to prioritize the well-being and artistic integrity of artists over commercial interests. This includes providing adequate support for young artists, respecting their personal lives, and promoting mental health awareness. By fostering a more supportive environment, the industry can help artists thrive both personally and professionally.