John Legend has been the subject of massive criticism following a disappointing performance at the Democratic National Convention on Wednesday night, August 21. The Grammy winner took the stage to sing “Let’s Go Crazy” by rock’n’roll icon Prince. Belting out the notes of the iconic ’80s song alongside Sheila E, he burst onto the music scene just before Minnesota Governor Tim Walz addressed voters at the United Center.
John’s performance was undoubtedly far from legendary and his version of the hit did not impress his fans, who could not accept that the “Purple Rain” artist’s legacy was being tarnished.
Reactions on the Internet to John Legend’s Prince tribute at the DNC
Some users took to social media to vent their anger and make their displeasure with Legend loud and clear. One user railed against the decision, saying the “All of Me” singer was supposedly the “perfect choice to perform Let’s Go Crazy,” writing on X (formerly Twitter): “Don’t do that shit again.” While Legend felt the anger of her fans, the other artists received applause: “Sheila E and that guitarist alone were awesome!” they continued.
Another angry internet user said he “doesn’t want to hear John Legend sing Prince songs.”
Read also | Diddy named in new $666,000 drug trafficking lawsuit filed by imprisoned cartel member; 50 Cent responds
Another critic on social media criticized the Grammy winner for not being able to hit the right notes. “…he has no charisma. What an insult to Prince’s legacy, honestly people, let it go. HAVE SOME RESPECT,” they added.
While many others were busy openly disparaging Legend, a fourth user voiced their criticism of him in a gentler manner. “I wasn’t a fan of John Legend singing that song (it didn’t fit his voice or style). But Sheila E… Sheila E is always (three fire emojis).”
One fan, meanwhile, pointed out: “John Legend’s first album would have done this better, he’s too much of a crooner now.” A suspected Prince fan commented: “He would have hated it (purple heart emoji).” In a follow-up message, the same user continued: “Legend doesn’t have what it takes to live up to Prince. You don’t have to be a Prince-like figure to do Prince, but you do have to be an eccentric little freak like Prince.”
Guitarist Ari O’Neal was celebrated as the bigger star on stage during John Legend’s performance
Contrary to the comments directed at John, guitarist Ari O’Neal (also known as “Ms Fender” on social media) seemed to have gained quite a fan base with her performance at the DNC.
Read also | Matthew Perry’s master bedroom was a “disaster” after his death: “Something very bad had happened and someone …”
One X-user wrote: “Guitarist Ari O’Neal gained a fan. Sheeeeeeessh.” A second admirer chimed in: “The guitarist: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ out of five.”
The Minnesota-born and highly acclaimed legendary artist died in the land of 10,000 lakes in 2016. Prince’s song, which John Legend covered at DNC on Wednesday, was originally featured on the 1984 album “Purple Rain” and is considered one of the late singer’s most unforgettable hits. Joining Legend on stage is Sheila E, a Californian singer and longtime friend and collaborator of Prince.
Although Legend has been a passionate and vocal supporter of Kamala Harris’ campaign this year, he turned many music fans into non-fans on Wednesday after his tribute to Prince.
Get more updates on Bollywood, Taylor Swift, Hollywood, Music, Web Series and latest entertainment news at Hindustan Times.
