Royel Otis, the Sydney-based indie-pop sensation, is currently facing a storm of backlash following the release of their latest single, “Moody”. The track, which debuted on May 9, has sparked controversy for allegedly containing misogynistic lyrics, with fans taking to social media to voice their disappointment.
With over 7 million monthly listeners on Spotify, Royel Otis has built a strong global following. The duo, consisting of Royel Maddell and Otis Pavlovic, has also claimed a major presence in Australia’s music scene by securing four awards at the 2024 ARIAs. They’re also slated to perform at iconic music festivals this year, including Glastonbury and Mad Cool in Spain.
The release of “Moody”, however, has slightly tainted their rising momentum. While the song has racked up close to 80,000 YouTube views, it has drawn criticism for lyrics that many deem sexist and harmful. Some listeners have gone so far as to accuse the duo of deleting comments that criticize the track.
A key line in question reads:
“I got good intentions / She don’t see them at all / She’d rather mention / That I missed her call / I’m in the doghouse again…”
The lyric that appears to have struck the deepest chord with listeners is the one where the band refers to a former girlfriend as a “bitch.” For many, this wording crosses a line and promotes a harmful stereotype often directed toward women.
Following the online uproar, Royel Otis issued an apology in response to the backlash. Although the apology has been characterized by some as “groveling,” others felt it was a step in the right direction. Still, many fans remain disappointed by what they perceive as a lack of self-awareness from the duo.
The duo’s core fan base has long appreciated their emotional honesty and atmospheric sounds, but the release of “Moody” may challenge their relationship with audiences who expect artists to grow with sensitivity. The concern is not just about one word or phrase—it’s about the tone it sets in a broader cultural context.
The controversy underscores a rising trend in the music industry: fans holding artists accountable for the messages embedded in their lyrics. As artists continue to push boundaries, the public demands they do so with respect, nuance, and responsibility.
Royel Otis now finds themselves at a crossroads—can they rebuild trust with fans while maintaining their artistic edge? That remains to be seen. For now, all eyes are on how they’ll respond moving forward, both in their music and in their public engagements.
