Ariana Grande disputes Grammys producer's reason for why she won't perform: 'You're lying about me'
Pop singer claims her "creativity & self expression" was "stifled" by organisers who wouldn't let her perform the songs she wanted
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Ariana Grande has disputed Grammys producer Ken Erlich’s explanation for why she turned down a performance at the event.
Erlich previously said the pop singer, who just released her new album thank u, next, felt it was “too late for her to pull something together”.
While she confirmed she would not be performing or attending the ceremony, Grande had a different reason for why.
“I’ve kept my mouth shut but now you’re lying about me,” she wrote on Twitter, with a picture of the Grammys statement from Erlich.
“I can pull together a performance over night and you know that, Ken. It was when my creativity & self-expression was stifled by you that I decided not to attend. I hope the show is exactly what you want it to be and more.”
It was previously reported that the singer had dropped out after producers had refused to let her sing ‘7 Rings’ during the show. A compromise was allegedly offered of a two-part medley beginning with the single, but that it would be up to producers what the second song was.
Grande has since said she “offered three different songs”.
“It’s about collaboration,” she added. “It’s about feeling supported. It’s about art and honesty. not politics. not doing favours or playing games. It’s just a game y’all.. and I’m sorry but that’s not what music is to me.”
“Hope that helps everyone understand my decision,” she concluded. “I am still grateful for the acknowledgement this year.
Kendrick Lamar, Drake, and Childish Gambino have also reportedly declined offers to perform at Sunday’s Grammy Awards, with producers admitting that they “have a problem in the hip-hop world.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments