BET Awards: Patti LaBelle Defends Tina Turner Tribute After Lyric Blunder
Patti LaBelle isn't losing sleep over her onstage mishap while honoring the late Tina Turner.
For those who may've missed it, during the 2023 BET Awards, the Godmother of Soul struggled with the lyrics as she belted out Turner's rendition of "The Best." Nonetheless, in the immediate aftermath of the performance, LaBelle was happy with her tribute to Turner, who died back in May.
"It meant no matter what voice I'm in—I'm hoarse, I have a cold —but whatever," she told Entertainment Tonight on June 25 about her presentation." I had to, I was giving it up for Tina Turner, 'cause she's simply the best."
She continued, "So you heard a little tweak every now and then out there, but I love her, and I did my best."
LaBelle was very eager to take the BET Awards stage, telling Rolling Stone before the awards shows, "Tina was a trailblazer and someone I have a tremendous amount of respect for because of all that she overcame and all that she accomplished. She was an is everything! And I am honored that I am able to pay tribute to her in this way."
The tribute performance came one month after Turner died while at home in Küsnacht, Switzerland. The "Proud Mary" singer was 83 years old.
Turner's team announced at the time, "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tina Turner. With her music and her boundless passion for life, she enchanted millions of fans around the world and inspired the stars of tomorrow. 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."