Kesha, the 38-year-old pop star known for her hit song 'Tik Tok', took the stage at South by Southwest on March 18, 2025, advocating fiercely for authenticity. During a panel discussion held with the dating app Feeld at the 'Fighting Loneliness in Our Digital World' event, she passionately emphasized the importance of genuine self-expression over the curated perfection often found on social media.
"The most attractive vibration a human being can give off is not perfection, it’s authenticity," Kesha stated, highlighting her belief in the need for authenticity amid the overwhelming pressure for flawless images. Her remarks came as part of her broader commitment to highlighting issues faced by many individuals, particularly within the scope of dating and self-acceptance.
Feeld, described as a platform catering to open-minded individuals, aligns with Kesha’s ethos of encouraging users to boldly express their desires without shame. This partnership showcases not only her advocacy but also her personal experiences and insights as someone who has navigated both the music industry and the challenges of modern dating culture.
Reflecting on today's society, Kesha noted how altered images bombard social media users. "Sometimes, you look at pictures... it just looks weird. That’s because perfection is actually quite unnatural," she elaborated, referencing the impact of Photoshop and digital enhancements on self-image and societal expectations.
Kesha’s dedication to inclusivity has been evident throughout her career. Growing up, she experienced firsthand the "lack of inclusion and acceptance," which shaped her desire to create spaces where others could feel comfortable being themselves. "If I have to tour the world, I’m going to make sure my shows are... a place where people can come be in their sexuality," she stated, reinforcing her commitment to fostering acceptance.
This commitment is especially significant for Kesha, who identified as part of the LGBTQ+ community during her formative years, feeling isolated without the support she desperately sought. With this background, her songs and performances aimed to unite and celebrate diversity within her audience.
Kesha also mentioned her personal struggles with societal expectations, asserting, "I decided... I’m going to be the f*** best at being myself." This determined attitude has fueled her growth as both an artist and an individual, demonstrating her authenticity as she continues to challenge norms and advocate for self-acceptance.
Further discussing her dating life, Kesha shared her openness to exploring non-monogamous relationships and how her perspectives have evolved. “I have explored non-monogamy... I’m f***into somebody taking care of me,” she admitted, candidly expressing her current interest in finding someone who can offer both emotional and financial support.
"I want someone... because they own the office building," Kesha quipped, adding humor to her candid exploration of intimacy and partnership. Through such statements, she connects with her audience, many of whom appreciate her willingness to embrace what others might deem unconventional.
Though Kesha engages with serious topics about authenticity and societal expectations, she balances these with humor and candidness, infusing her interactions with relatable experiences. Her reflections serve not only as personal anecdotes but also as relatable messages for her fans, which resonate deeply with generations who battle similar self-image issues.
The insights shared by Kesha at South by Southwest are timely, encouraging broader societal conversations about the nature of authenticity, acceptance, and how social media influences personal identities. With her unmistakable blend of vulnerability and empowerment, Kesha remains not just a pop icon but also an advocate for those seeking to navigate the complexity of self-identity.
Her advocacy continues to shine, proving the notion articulated during her panel—that true beauty lies not within perfection, but rather within the courage to be genuine and unapologetically oneself. Kesha's continued influence signifies strong advocacy for authenticity, making her voice one of compassion, acceptance, and undeniable strength.
