Kesha Marks 15 Years of ‘TiK ToK’ and Announces a Permanent Change to the Song’s Diddy Lyric
By Website Content Manager
Published by Cel Manero from Global One Media Inc.
The “Joyride” artist attributes the new lyric to Reneé Rapp.
Kesha is making a lasting change to her debut single.
On Wednesday, Aug. 7, the singer announced on social media that she is altering the opening line of her 2010 hit “TiK ToK” to deliver a strong message to Sean “Diddy” Combs in light of the ongoing allegations and lawsuits against him related to sexual abuse and sex trafficking.
Originally, Kesha, now 37, sang, “Wake up in the morning feeling like P. Diddy,” reflecting a carefree lifestyle.
During a recent Coachella performance with Reneé Rapp, she altered the lyrics, singing, “Wake up in the morning feeling like, f— P. Diddy!”
Now, the “Joyride” singer has announced that she’s permanently changing the lyrics and is crediting Reneé Rapp for the inspiration.
“TiK ToK was the first single I released that had both my voice and my name on it,” Kesha wrote in the caption, accompanied by a series of throwback photos. “I remember making it upbeat and joyful because that’s how I felt and wanted others to feel.”
Reflecting on the song’s release 15 years ago, Kesha noted how it captures her outlook at the time. “That girl was naïve, wild, and playful. This song preserves a part of me that I cherish deeply, and now realize I must fiercely protect. The world has changed so much, and so have I,” she continued.
“I absolutely love the new lyric change,” the pop star added, giving a shout-out to Rapp. “Yes, it is permanent.”
Kesha went on to reveal that she plans to re-record the song once she secures the legal rights. “Now, my first hit represents so much more. It symbolizes fiercely safeguarding my joy and fun, both in myself and in others,” she expressed.
When “TiK ToK” was released, it dominated the Billboard Hot 100, holding the No. 1 spot for nine weeks. To this day, Kesha has had five songs on the chart, with “TiK ToK” having the longest run.
Last November, during a tour stop, Kesha modified the lyrics in a more PG way, singing, “Wake up in the morning feeling just like me,” instead of referencing the rapper.
That same month, Combs made headlines when his ex, Cassie, filed a lawsuit accusing him of rape and sex trafficking over a decade of alleged abuse. The lawsuit was resolved to their “mutual satisfaction” just a day later, but since then, more individuals have come forward with similar allegations of abuse, sex trafficking, and gang rape.
Combs and his legal team have denied all allegations, as well as concerns following federal raids on his properties in March. His attorney, Aaron Dyer, stated, “There has been no finding of criminal or civil liability with any of these allegations. Mr. Combs is innocent and will continue to fight every single day to clear his name.”
