Patti LaBelle Speaks Out After Struggling w/ Lyrics During Tina Turner Tribute: ‘I Did My Best’

Patti LaBelle, Tina Turner

Patti LaBelle Speaks Out After Struggling w/ Lyrics During Tina Turner Tribute: ‘I Did My Best’

R&B singer Patti LaBelle has addressed what went wrong during her tribute to musical icon Tina Turner.

At the BET Awards on Sunday (June 25), Patti LaBelle, 79, graced the stage to honor the late Tina Turner. During the tribute performance, Patti LaBelle sang the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s classic hit, “The Best.” Things seemingly started off well, however, viewers noticed that toward the middle of the tune, LaBelle struggled with the lyrics.

Patti LaBelle

While on stage, after taking a slight pause to collect herself, the R&B legend admitted to the audience that she couldn’t see the words on the teleprompter. LaBelle said,

“I can’t see the words and I don’t know. I’m tryin’, y’all!”

Patti LaBelle says she can’t see the words #BETAwards pic.twitter.com/DGu6SksytF

— philip lewis (@Phil_Lewis_) June 26, 2023

Following her performance, LaBelle shared why it was important for her to celebrate the life and legacy of Tina Turner. She also touched on seemingly not being prepared for the performance in its entirety. She said,

“It meant no matter what voice I’m in — I’m hoarse, I have a cold — but whatever, I had to, I was giving it up for Tina Turner, ’cause she’s simply the best. So you heard a little tweak every now and then out there, but I love her, and I did my best.”

Patti LaBelle

Fans have since reacted to the lyrical mishap. Many social media users said that the BET network should have had better production for the performers. Others pointed out that attendees in the live audience obstructed LaBelle’s view of the screen.

See reactions below:

As previously reported, news broke on May 24 that Turner passed away at the age of 83. In part, the statement posted to her socials said,

“Today we say goodbye to a dear friend who leaves us all her greatest work: her music. All our heartfelt compassion goes out to her family. Tina, we will miss you dearly.”

Turner’s representatives have confirmed that she died from natural causes.

Tina Turner

What are your thoughts on Patti LaBelle’s tribute to Tina Turner? Let us know below!

[Sources: 1, 2]