The legendary Chaka Khan is speaking out following her controversial performance this weekend during the 13th annual Jazz in the Gardens show. The concert reportedly ran into several issues, with fans believing the “Sweet Thing” singer was inebriated during her closing set. Producer Rico Love (Beyonce, Usher) agreed with the general consensus, tweeting that the icon appeared to be under the influence, which led to several fans walking out.
I love Chaka Khan with my whole heart but she is drunk as hell on stage and Jazz In the Gardens . This makes me so sad #TTLO
— Rico Love (@IamRicoLove) March 18, 2018
She’s not even singing at all. She’s just standing on stage as THOUSANDS of ppl walk out. Her background singers are killing it though! This really breaks my heart. I’m not posting this to make fun of a legend but I’m genuinely hurt! #TTLO
— Rico Love (@IamRicoLove) March 18, 2018
Chaka Khan just said “Free my nigga Kodak” #TTLO
— Rico Love (@IamRicoLove) March 18, 2018
Na she didn’t say that! But she was def was drunk as hell and she mumbled some shit that sounded like it 😂😂😂 #TTLO https://t.co/28ntRyiZga
— Rico Love (@IamRicoLove) March 18, 2018
Anita Baker sounds AMAAAAAAAAZING!!!!! #TTLO
— Rico Love (@IamRicoLove) March 19, 2018
The “Tell Me Something Good” songstress has released a statement to The Jasmine Brand, where her rep claims she has been under the weather, but performed anyway against her doctor’s wishes.
“Chaka Khan has been supporting her scheduled show dates as she has been battling the flu for a number of weeks despite the doctor’s orders to cancel these shows and rest. Unfortunately, Chaka not wanting to disappoint her fans has performed, while not totally 100% and the media has been turning these difficult performances into something else.”
“Chaka values her fans and supporters and would never do anything to jeopardize their support and love. Under doctor’s orders, Chaka will be resting for the remainder of the week until her next performance engagement in Macon, GA, Saturday, March 24th.”
