Olly Murs has been left heartbroken over the backlash to his new single’s lyrics which fans have branded “misogynistic” and “controlling”.
The 38-year-old’s latest track I Hate You When You’re Drunk has received fierce criticism for its lyrics which appears to criticise a loved one for drinking too much alcohol, with online users drawing a link to his fiancé Amelia Tank.
The singer-songwriter told how he’s been left feeling “upset” after the songs lyrics were “misunderstood”.
The single has sparked fury from listeners who have branded the track "misogynistic, cruel and a terrible song in so many ways".
Olly was asked to respond to the criticism on BBC Breakfast with hosts Sally Nugent and Jon Kay on Tuesday.
He said: “It’s obviously upsetting to think that people took it that way because it was not that intention. It was a song that I really related to in the studio.
“At the start of January, I had a New Year’s resolution I wouldn’t drink for a year. So, I’ve been out with my friends, my family, (thinking) I hate you when you’re drunk.
“It was never about Amelia or anyone, it was just a song that we really related with at that time. So, for people to take it that way, I was really upset by it.
“I couldn’t believe people had taken it that way which is a shame because I think the song is really great.”
Murs said he understood that when you see something written it can look “a lot worse.”
He added: “When you listen to the song and you understand the type of artist I am, it was just more in a cheeky fun way.
“If there was anyone that I would thought would have got offended by it, it would probably be Amelia if she thought it was about her, but it actually wasn’t. We move on.”
Murs said he has stuck to his New Years’ Resolution which has made him “more aware” of his body but he will drink again next year.
“I was a bit wild when I was single and so now, I’m happy and everything’s settled, it’s nice not to be drinking.
“It’s nice to be on the other side of it and just watch everyone else having fun. I’ve really enjoyed doing it to be honest.”
The lyrics, which have ruffled feathers among Olly's fans, are: "Oh you’re slurring all your words / There’s makeup on your shirt /You’re dancing on the tables can’t you see / That you look like a mess and you’re singing Whitney whoa / Oh I hate you, hate you, I hate you, hate you when you’re drunk.
"Oh you got them drunken eyes / Should we call it a night / Cos you’ve been telling stories 4/5 times / Yeah I’ve heard it before and my ears are bleeding whoa."
