Singer-composer and Padma Shri awardee Adnan Sami has released a new single titled “Lipstick” via Zee Music Company [1, 3].
The release marks a deliberate effort by the artist to use popular music as a tool for social commentary. By focusing on a common cosmetic item, Sami aims to address the societal pressures and stigmas that persist around women's choices in self-expression [1, 2, 3].
Sami said the song is a feel-good anthem celebrating confidence and self-love [1, 2]. The track blends cultural charm with an upbeat tempo to create what he calls a joyful anthem of confidence [1]. According to the artist, the goal of the project is to break the stigma surrounding women wearing lipstick [3].
In discussing the inspiration for the song, Sami noted the cross-generational appeal of the subject. "I’ve an eight-year-old daughter, she loves to put on lipstick and then you have the grandmas who are putting it," Sami said [3].
The single was released on YouTube, specifically targeting the Indian market [1, 3]. It is presented as a lyrical video that emphasizes the song's message of empowerment, and individuality [1, 2].
“A joyful anthem of confidence”
The release of 'Lipstick' reflects a growing trend of established South Asian artists using mainstream pop music to challenge conservative social norms. By framing the act of wearing lipstick as a matter of self-love and confidence, Sami is attempting to pivot a mundane beauty practice into a broader conversation about female autonomy and the rejection of traditional societal judgments in India.
