Overview

• Carpenter’s album art shows her on her knees as a suited figure grips her hair, drawing accusations of oversexualization and anti-feminist messaging.
• Simon said Carpenter’s cover is no more provocative than flashier images such as the Rolling Stones’ Sticky Fingers.
• The lead single “Manchild” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking Carpenter’s first song to launch atop the chart.
• Simon advised Carpenter that “any press is good press” and said she should not worry about negative reactions.
• The controversy highlights ongoing tensions over female artists’ sexual expression and industry scrutiny ahead of the album’s August 29 release.