Transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney has addressed the widespread criticism surrounding her song “Days of Girlhood,” acknowledging that the lyrics are “dumb” and “annoying,” even to herself. The track, which has sparked debate across the internet, has been called unflattering to young women, a point Mulvaney conceded in a recent video response.
Mulvaney, 27, aimed to clarify her intentions behind the three-minute pop song, stating it was meant to be a lighthearted reflection on her transition journey, which she began documenting publicly two years prior. This comes as the latest wave of controversy for Mulvaney, whose partnership with Bud Light last year ignited a significant backlash among conservative groups and resulted in substantial financial losses for the beer brand.
Mulvaney speaking to the camera, acknowledging criticism from both conservative and liberal viewpoints regarding her song lyrics
Mulvaney openly admitted that she is aware of the negative reception from both ends of the political spectrum regarding her song’s lyrics and overall message.
A still from Dylan Mulvaney's "Days of Girlhood" music video, showcasing vibrant and playful visuals
The music video accompanying “Days of Girlhood” has garnered over 855,000 views on YouTube since its release, despite the lyrical content drawing ire from many viewers.
In a TikTok post, Mulvaney commented on the near-universal dislike of the song, stating, “The fact that both conservatives and liberals would probably agree that this is potentially the most annoying song in the history of ever was no small task.” This humorous self-deprecation highlights her awareness of the song’s negative reception.
“Dumb Lyrics” and Cyndi Lauper Inspiration
Mulvaney openly described the lyrics of her three-minute pop track as “dumb,” but defended this choice as intentional, aiming for a light and unserious tone. She drew a parallel to Cyndi Lauper’s iconic 1983 hit, “Girls Just Want to Have Fun,” suggesting a similar spirit of carefree enjoyment.
“I don’t think that womanhood or girlhood is chalked up to be these like silly, frivolous things,” Mulvaney explained. “I still think we should be allowed to enjoy those things. And I could have probably written a song about my pain or my trauma. But I didn’t want to.” This statement reveals her desire to create something upbeat and fun, rather than focusing on potentially heavier themes related to her transition experience.
Despite her artistic intentions, Mulvaney acknowledged the widespread perception of the song as “really bad.” She even jokingly attributed some of the negative qualities to her own “bad music taste,” further embracing the self-deprecating humor surrounding the song’s reception.
Fundraising for LGBTQ+ Charity Amidst Controversy
Despite the critical panning, Mulvaney emphasized a positive outcome: the song serves as a fundraising vehicle for the Trevor Project, an organization dedicated to suicide prevention efforts among LGBTQ young people.
“Even when the transphobes stream the song, that money goes to queer kids,” she pointed out, framing the negative attention and streams as beneficial for a charitable cause. “That’s a win.” This charitable component adds another layer to the narrative surrounding “Days of Girlhood,” suggesting a purpose beyond mere entertainment or self-expression.
The music video for “Days of Girlhood” features Mulvaney in a variety of outfits, including a mini dress, crop top, polka dot dress, and negligee, as she performs the song. The lyrics themselves have been a major point of contention, with many criticizing their portrayal of women.
Lyrical Content Sparks Misogyny Accusations
The lyrics of “Days of Girlhood” depict stereotypical portrayals of women, including “overspending,” needing “retail therapy,” “picking up meds,” and experiencing a “breakdown.” Further controversial lines include references to girls who “flirt for drinks” and a “walk of shame” after a one-night stand with a man whose name she doesn’t recall.
Critics across the political spectrum have condemned these lyrics, arguing that they perpetuate harmful stereotypes and mock young women. Amber Duke, in a DailyMail.com column, directly accused Mulvaney of “misogyny” from someone “cosplaying a biological female.” Duke further argued that the song relies on “classic sexist tropes,” such as the idea that “women are addicted to clothes” and “can’t control their emotions.”
A photo of Dylan Mulvaney overlaid with text referencing the Bud Light controversy and sales impact
The backlash against “Days of Girlhood” arrives nearly a year after Mulvaney’s Bud Light partnership triggered a conservative boycott and significant financial repercussions for the company.
From Bud Light Backlash to “Days of Girlhood” Controversy
Dylan Mulvaney initially gained internet fame in 2022 with her TikTok series “Days of Girlhood,” chronicling her gender transition. This online presence led to lucrative endorsement deals with major brands in cosmetics and fashion, appearances alongside prominent figures like President Joe Biden and Hollywood celebrities, and significant financial success.
However, her collaboration with Bud Light in April of the previous year proved to be a turning point. A promotional video featuring a Bud Light can with Mulvaney’s face sparked outrage among conservatives, who accused the brand of “going woke.” The ensuing boycott resulted in a massive $400 million loss in sales for Anheuser-Busch, Bud Light’s parent company, representing a 13.5 percent sales decline.
Dylan Mulvaney rolling around in bed in pajamas, with text referencing her claims of having future work lined up
In a recent social media post, Mulvaney, pictured rolling around in bed, asserted that she has numerous projects in development, though specific details remain undisclosed.
Dylan Mulvaney addressing a partially filled auditorium at Penn State University, where she announced plans for a one-woman show
Mulvaney spoke to a half-empty auditorium at Penn State in December, unveiling plans for a one-woman show, signaling her continued pursuit of performance and public engagement.
The Bud Light fallout was amplified by figures like musician Kid Rock, NFL player Trae Waynes, and model Bri Teresi, who publicly criticized the collaboration and even filmed themselves destroying Bud Light products. The financial impact on Bud Light was substantial and sustained, with repeated double-digit revenue drops. Despite the controversy, Mulvaney reportedly earned $2 million from promotional work last year, securing deals with brands like Nike and Mac and attending the Golden Globes in January. She was also recognized on Forbes’ 30 under 30 list in December.
However, questions remain about the long-term trajectory of Mulvaney’s career in the wake of the Bud Light incident and now, the “Days of Girlhood” song controversy. Her one-woman show announcement and recent social media posts suggest an effort to maintain visibility and relevance in the public eye, even amidst ongoing criticism and debate.
In a late-night online post, Mulvaney refuted claims that her “15 minutes of fame” were over, insisting that she has a full schedule of projects planned for the coming years. This defiant stance underscores her determination to navigate the controversies and continue her career as a public figure.
