Katy Perry faces backlash as album 143 flops after controversies

On September 20, 2024, Katy Perry launched her seventh studio album, '143,' which was met with predominantly negative reviews from music critics. The album's release followed a tumultuous promotional period characterized by the poor performance of its lead single, 'Woman's World,' which peaked at No. 63 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking a significant low for Perry's career. Critics described the single as a failed attempt at a feminist anthem, with some reviews labeling it a 'monumental catastrophe.' The controversy surrounding the album was exacerbated by Perry's decision to work with producer Dr. Luke, a figure embroiled in allegations of sexual assault. This choice drew criticism from various media outlets and celebrities, including Abigail Breslin, who publicly condemned Perry's collaboration. Despite defending her decision on the 'Call Her Daddy' podcast, Perry acknowledged that it sparked important conversations about accountability in the music industry. The negative reception of '143' reflects a broader trend in Perry's recent career, as her previous album, 'Smile,' also struggled to achieve the commercial success of her earlier works. Critics noted that '143' lacked the vibrant personality that initially propelled Perry to stardom, with reviews highlighting lyrical clichés and a disaffected vocal performance. As a result of these factors, the album's release has been perceived as a significant setback for Perry, raising questions about her future direction in the music industry and her ability to regain her previous chart-topping success.