Prince Fans Slam John Legend For DNC Tribute

BY Caroline Fisher
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SAN MARINO, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 13: John Legend attends the Ralph Lauren SS23 Runway Show at The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens on October 13, 2022 in San Marino, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images)
Social media users think John Legend was the wrong choice.

Yesterday, John Legend took the stage at the Democratic National Convention at Chicago's United Center. He delivered a lively performance of Prince's "Let's Go Crazy," joined by the late icon's frequent collaborator Sheila E. The duo went on just before Tim Walz accepted the nomination for Vice President, though some believe they missed the mark.

Of course, Legend's talent is undeniable, but social media users argue that the song simply wasn't a good fit. Many think Sheila E would have been better off going solo, or alongside someone else entirely. Disgruntled viewers are sounding off about the tribute on X, calling the moment an "insult" to Prince's legacy.

John Legend & Sheila E's DNC Prince Tribute

"Who the hell decided that John Legend was the perfect pick to perform Let’s Go Crazy? Don’t do that sh*t again. Sheila E. and that guitarist alone was fire! #DNC," one user writes. "I’m sorry but John Legend doesn’t have the singing style or voice of Prince. They should’ve got someone else to cover his song," someone else claims. Fortunately, many others are coming to Legend's defense, arguing that it was a fun tribute despite all the controversy it's stirred up.

One part of the tribute that's receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback is Ari O'Neal's guitar performance. Fans think she stole the show and took the performance to the next level. "I don’t know who the guitarist was who was absolutely shredding with John Legend and Sheila E on 'Let’s Go Crazy' but I think I’m in love," one supporter says on X. John Legend and Sheila E. weren't the only artists to grace the stage at the event, as Lil Jon, Patti LaBelle, Mickey Guyton, and more have also performed. What do you think of John Legend and Sheila E's Prince tribute? What about some fans claiming Legend was the wrong choice for it? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.

About The Author
Caroline Fisher is currently a News Editor at HotNewHipHop. Her time at HotNewHipHop began in 2023 when she began writing about music and pop culture full-time. Since then, she has helped cover major stories including the YSL RICO trial, Drake and Kendrick Lamar’s explosive feud, Diddy’s ongoing legal battle, and awards shows such as the BET Awards. Being from Chicago, she also got the opportunity to attend Summer Smash 2024 and review Chief Keef’s historic homecoming show. She additionally covered sets by Flo Milli, Playboi Carti, Bktherula, and more.

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