Nelly Furtado has revealed that she will be stepping away from music, citing the negative impact of online body-shaming as a significant factor in her decision. This announcement came just as she celebrated the 25th anniversary of her debut album, “Whoa Nelly!,” through an emotional social media post on Friday.
Reflecting on her career, Furtado expressed her joy about reaching a new generation of fans and shared fond memories of her time on stage. However, she emphasized the importance of moving forward to explore other personal and creative endeavors that align better with this new chapter of her life.
While announcing her hiatus from performances, the 46-year-old singer made it clear that songwriting will always remain a core part of her identity. She expressed gratitude for her journey in the music industry, thanking fans for their support, her collaborators, and the teams who helped make her musical dreams a reality. “I am grateful for all the years of fun, community, and wonder,” she remarked, ensuring her appreciation extended to those who have been part of her success.
In light of recent body-shaming comments directed at her due to her performance outfits, Furtado confronted the negativity head-on. Earlier this year, she made a bold fashion statement at Manchester Pride, wearing an oversized shirt featuring a playful design that conveyed a message of confidence. The shirt read “Better than ever,” underscoring her commitment to self-acceptance and body positivity.
Furtado’s journey reflects a broader conversation about body image and the pressures that public figures face. Despite the challenges, she continues to promote a message of self-love and resilience. In an earlier Instagram post, she encouraged her followers to embrace body neutrality and confidence, highlighting her own experiences of growth and self-acceptance.
As her fans flock to social media to share their love and support following her announcement, Furtado’s impact on the music industry and her advocacy for body positivity remain significant. While she steps back from public performances, the fond memories created through her music will undoubtedly linger on.