Lizzo is officially heading to the big screen, and she’s taking on a role that’s as bold and groundbreaking as she is. 

The Grammy-winning powerhouse has been cast as Sister Rosetta Tharpe, the trailblazing musician known as the “Godmother of Rock and Roll,” in Rosetta, a highly anticipated biopic currently in development at Amazon MGM Studios.

But Lizzo isn’t just stepping into Tharpe’s shoes – she’s also producing the film, making this project a true passion piece. 

Rosetta will dive deep into a pivotal chapter of Tharpe’s life, exploring her musical genius, the challenges she faced as a queer Black woman in the industry, and the unforgettable moment she turned a wedding into a historic stadium concert.

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Lizzo couldn’t contain her excitement about the announcement, taking to Instagram (March 24) to share, “Black people made rock n roll yeaaaah.” 

It’s a statement that rings true – Tharpe’s electrifying sound and signature guitar playing laid the foundation for rock and roll, influencing legends like Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, Little Richard, Johnny Cash, and Bob Dylan.

Speaking of Dylan, even he once recognized Tharpe’s unparalleled impact, describing her as “a big, good-lookin’ woman, and divine, not to mention sublime and splendid. A guitar-playin’, singin’ evangelist.” That’s exactly the kind of powerhouse role that seems tailor-made for Lizzo, who will be picking up the guitar herself to bring Tharpe’s story to life.

The film is backed by a stellar team, with Lizzo joining forces with producers Kevin Beisler, Nina Yang Bongiovi, and Forest Whitaker of Significant Productions. The screenplay is being crafted by Natalie Chaidez and Kwynn Perry,  promising a gripping and deeply authentic portrayal of Tharpe’s journey.

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Lizzo is no stranger to making history. The Emmy-winning artist became the first Black woman to win Record of the Year at the Grammys since 1994 with About Damn Time. Her smash hit Truth Hurts dominated the Billboard Hot 100 for seven weeks, making her the longest-running No. 1 solo female rap artist in history. 

The film promises to be an electrifying tribute to a woman who shattered boundaries, redefined genres, and forever changed the course of music history. And if there’s anyone who can do her justice, it’s Lizzo.

Photo Credit: @lizzobeeating on Instagram.