Special was released in 2022 as Lizzo's third studio album. The album included the single "About Damn Time", which reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and won the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 2023. "2 Be Loved (Am I Ready)" was also released as a single from the album. Musically, Special combined funk, disco and pop, featuring Lizzo's signature vocals and flute playing. Thematically, the album centered on self-love, resilience and overcoming insecurity. With Special, Lizzo built on the success of her breakthrough album Cuz I Love You.