Zara Larsson Gets Dirty — And Political — In Pretty Ugly

“Have you ever seen a pretty girl get ugly like this?” asks Swedish singer Zara Larsson in her new track Pretty Ugly, the bold lead single from her fifth studio album, released on April 25, 2025. Reuniting with producer MNEK, she delivers a raw, 1990s house-inspired anthem that breaks conventions. With pounding beats and a rebellious chorus, the track rejects ladylike expectations and embraces unapologetic self-expression and feminine chaos.

Zara Larsson is a pop and R&B sensation who launched her career by winning Talang (the Swedish version of Got Talent) in 2008. She rose to international fame with hits like Lush Life, Symphony, and Ruin My Life. After signing with TEN Music Group and later Epic Records, she released a string of successful albums, including So Good and Venus (2024). Known for her powerful voice and bold persona, she remains a vibrant figure in the global pop scene.

Her latest release continues this trajectory. With fiery energy and infectious lyrics, Pretty Ugly reached over half a million YouTube streams in under a week. The song is a protest against the narrow ideals society imposes on women, reducing them to being “proper” or “good.” Larsson claims space for women to be exactly who they are in the moment — messy or with makeup running down their faces. The protest peaks in the lines: “They tell me to be nice, I should know my place // Sometimes a girl don't wanna be well-behaved.”

Visually, the message is echoed in the music video, where girls begin dancing in soft, feminine outfits before letting loose in the mud — challenging the expectation that women must always stay “clean.” However, the visual portrayals of the women remain quite sexualized, which may slightly contradict the feminist intent of the song. Nevertheless, it stands as a powerful statement against the labeling and policing of women's behavior.

It’s worth noting that Zara Larsson frequently uses her voice to speak out on social issues. Known for her fearless stance against sexism, her advocacy for sexual health, and her commitment to equality, she boldly addresses taboos and sparks vital conversations. Her openness and activism reflect a strong drive for social change.