Patti LaBelle forgets words to iconic Tina Turner song during BET Awards tribute but plays it off expertly

Patti LaBelle struggled to get through one part of her tribute to the late, great at this year’s BET Awards, somehow forgetting the words to one of the singer’s biggest hits. 

Lady Marmalade singer Patti, 79, had been invited to sing Tina’s classic song The Best on stage at the star-studded awards in Los Angeles, California on Sunday. 

following a long illness. The legendary musician was best known for songs such as Proud Mary, River Deep – Mountain High, Nutbush City Limits and, of course, The Best, which Patti was tasked with belting out. 

However, perhaps due to nerves or just simply becoming absent-minded, Patti didn’t seem to know the words off by heart and began stumbling over the lyrics. 

Keen to keep the show going, the soul icon then ad-libbed the song and said: ‘What if I can’t see the words, I don’t know! I’m trying, y’all!’ 

It appeared that Patti’s view of the teleprompter was being blocked for some reason but when it got to the recognisable chorus, she continued with the performance as usual. 

Speaking after the performance, Patti explained that she was having issues with her voice, telling Entertainment Tonight: ‘It meant no matter what voice I’m in – I’m hoarse, I have a cold – but whatever, I had to, I was giving it up for Tina Turner, ’cause she’s simply the best.

‘So you heard a little tweak every now and then out there, but I love her, and I did my best.’

It wasn’t long before the flub went viral on social media and, while some viewers laughed and praised how Patti recovered, others accused the singer of being disrespectful to Turner. 

Finding the whole blunder hilarious, one supporter commented: ‘Patti?? she will always entertain me more than the new generation even if she don’t remember a word.’ 

Highlighting Patti’s age in her defence, another fan said: ‘Do yall realize how old she is and how many songs she’s sung during her career. She gets a pass.’ 

Actress Holly Robinson Peete also wrote on Twitter: ‘Yes, because producers didn’t make sure that her Teleprompter was clear. They owe her big apology. Not tolerating any Patti slander. This woman is almost 80 and is a legend.’

However, others criticised the star with one weighing in: ‘I love Patti but she should’ve declined if she didn’t know the lyrics.’ 

‘This tribute was so disappointing,’ one stated. 

Referring to past incidences where Patti has forgotten the lyrics, another added: ‘You should know the words. This the 3rd time this happened to you.’ 

Prior to the awards, Patti expressed how honoured she felt to be asked to deliver the tribute performance. 

‘Tina was a trailblazer and someone I have a tremendous amount of respect for because of all that she overcame and all that she accomplished,’ she said in a statement to Rolling Stone. 

‘She was and is everything! And I am honored that I am able to pay tribute to her in this way.’ 

After news of Turner’s death was announced, Patti tweeted: ‘Tina, the world will forever be grateful for your voice, your fearlessness, and your grace. You truly are the Queen of Rock & Roll and your spirit will reign forever! Rest in eternal peace and love!’