Unforgettable: Patti LaBelle's Electrifying Homage to Tina Turner Leaves BET Awards Speechless

Patti LaBelle performs onstage during the 23rd annual BET Awards at the Microsoft Theater onn June 25, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. John Salangsang/Shutterstock

Patti LaBelle received assistance from the 2023 BET Awards audience when she had a momentary lapse in remembering the lyrics during her powerful tribute to the late Tina Turner.

At the age of 79, known as the "Godmother of Soul," LaBelle graced the stage at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday, June 25. Her intention was to honor Turner, who sadly passed away at the age of 83 in May. However, as LaBelle commenced her performance of "(Simply) the Best," she openly admitted that she was unsure of the lyrics.

"I'm giving it my all!" she playfully exclaimed before diving into the chorus. "Anyway, I can't read the lyrics."

Despite the slight mishap during the performance, the audience remained enthusiastic and kept grooving to the beat. "May God bless Tina Turner, BET, and hip-hop!" LaBelle expressed as she concluded the song.

Patti LaBelle performs onstage during the 23rd annual BET Awards at the Microsoft Theater onn June 25, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. Jim Ruymen/UPI/Shutterstock

The mishap during the awards show quickly spread across the internet, receiving mixed reviews from fans of LaBelle. One viewer expressed frustration, tweeting, "I wish Patti would remember to bring her reading glasses." Another viewer described the memorable moment as "wonderful and uplifting."

Some social media users drew comparisons between this BET Awards mishap and LaBelle's appearance at the 1996 National Tree Lighting, which has become a popular clip online. In the clip, LaBelle questions the absence of her background singers and notices that the cue cards display the wrong lyrics for the holiday classic she is supposed to sing, saying, "This Christmas, I don't know the song."

When questioned about the events that transpired on Sunday, a representative from BET shared with The Hollywood Reporter, "Celebrating the life and enduring legacy of the esteemed Ms. Tina Turner at the BET Awards 2023 was an exceptional honor. It was equally remarkable to have the iconic Ms. Patti LaBelle gracing our stage to pay tribute to one of her peers. Unfortunately, due to the overwhelming enthusiasm of the crowd, the teleprompter was obstructed, hindering Ms. LaBelle's ability to view the lyrics. Nevertheless, we remain immensely grateful to Ms. LaBelle for generously showcasing her extraordinary talent during this significant moment."

Content:

Tina Turner was confirmed to appear at the awards ceremony only 48 hours prior to the live broadcast. A statement released by the network expressed that the two-time Grammy winner, LaBelle, would pay tribute to the iconic Queen of Rock 'n' Roll. The performance was expected to showcase LaBelle's remarkable talent and effectively capture the essence of Turner's unmatched legacy, promising a truly extraordinary experience.

LaBelle, on the other hand, expressed her gratitude in her statement for being included in such a meaningful tribute. She expressed admiration for Turner's resilience and achievements, stating, "Tina was a pioneer who overcame numerous challenges and achieved remarkable success. She truly embodies greatness."

On May 24, it was announced that Turner passed away at her residence in Switzerland. Her spokesperson, Bernard Doherty, described her as a legendary figure in the music industry and an inspiration to many.

The following day, a spokesperson for the artist known for her album "Private Dancer" confirmed that she had passed away due to natural causes.

Amidst the global grief for this significant loss in the music industry, LaBelle was among the numerous celebrities who openly shared their admiration for Turner. Last month, she posted an Instagram tribute with the caption, "Tina, the world will always be grateful for your exceptional voice, your boldness, and your elegance! You truly are the reigning Queen of Rock & Roll, and your spirit will endure eternally! May you rest in eternal peace and love!"