Kesha commemorates the 15th anniversary of her debut single by vowing to re-record it with an altered lyric that denounces Sean 'Diddy' Combs following damning allegations against him.
- Aug 8, 2024
AceShowbiz - Kesha is making a significant and permanent change to her iconic debut single "TiK ToK." The artist has altered the opening line as a powerful statement against Sean "P. Diddy" Combs amid serious allegations against him.
Fifteen years after its release, Kesha is renewing her first smash hit through a bold lyrical change. Originally, the catchy line "Wake up in the morning feeling like P. Diddy" represented a carefree and fun lifestyle. However, Kesha recently confirmed through social media that she would now be singing, "Wake up in the morning feeling like, f--- P. Diddy!"
The shift in lyrics is a direct response to the ongoing sexual abuse and sex trafficking allegations against Sean "Diddy" Combs.
In a heartfelt social media post, Kesha reflected on the significance of "TiK ToK," released when she was only 22. "TiK ToK was the first single that I put into this world that had my voice AND my name credited," she wrote. "I remember making it fun and happy because that’s how I felt and wanted others to feel."
Over the years, the song has remained a reminder of her youthful naivety and wild side, which she now feels she must protect. "This song eternalizes a side of myself that I love very much, and now see I have to protect fiercely … my first baby stands for so much. It stands for fiercely protecting my fun and unadulterated joy, in myself and in others," she explained.
The change in lyrics first surfaced during a Coachella performance with Renee Rapp. Following positive reception, Kesha confirmed the change is permanent and gave Rapp a shout-out. "Yes it is permanent," Kesha stated.
Following its original release in 2009, "TiK ToK" spent nine weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 and has since surpassed a billion streams on Spotify. Sharing this milestone with fans, Kesha even posted a playful video of herself brushing her teeth with Jack Daniel's whiskey, referencing one of the song's most notable lyrics.
Amid her battles, including a long legal struggle with producer Dr. Luke, Kesha has emerged stronger and more independent than ever. After settling her decade-long lawsuit, she celebrated with a performance at WeHo Pride and launched her own label, Kesha Records. Her first single under this label, "Joyride," was released in July 2023.
Now, as the pop star plans to re-record "TiK ToK" with the new lyrics, she continues to emphasize the importance of protecting her joy and fun, both for herself and her fans. "My first baby stands for so much," Kesha said. "It stands for fiercely protecting my fun and unadulterated joy, in myself and in others."
The transformation of "TiK ToK" into an anthem of resilience and courage highlights Kesha's journey - a testament to her growth and determination to stand against injustice, all while engaging her audience with the infectious joy and energy that originally made the song a hit.