music / Pop

Madonna says she never intended to pay “tribute” to Aretha Franklin at the 2018 VMAs

“I could never do her justice in this context or environment.”

By Jewel Wicker
August 21, 2018
Madonna says she never intended to pay “tribute” to Aretha Franklin at the 2018 VMAs NEW YORK, NY - AUGUST 20: Madonna poses in the press room at the 2018 MTV Video Music Awards Press Room at Radio City Music Hall on August 20, 2018 in New York City.   Photo by Paul Zimmerman/Getty Images

Madonna has responded to the backlash she's received following her speech about Aretha Franklin. Madonna, who delivered the speech in question before handing out the Artists of the Year award to Camilla Cabello, posted the message on Instagram.

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In the message, Madonna says MTV asked her to share an anecdote about her connection to Aretha Franklin but it was not intended to be a tribute.

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Im with the Winner!! The beautiful @camila_cabello ! So proud of her! 🌈💕🎉. And just to clarify: I was asked to present video of the year by MTV! And then they asked me to share any anecdotes I had in my career connected to Aretha Franklin! I shared a part of my journey and thanked Aretha for inspiring me along the way. I did not intend to do a tribute to her! That would be impossible in 2 minutes with all the noise and tinsel of an award show. I could never do her justice in this context or environment. Unfortunately most people have short attention spans, and are so quick to judge. I love Aretha! R.E.S.P.E.C.T. 🙏🏼. I Love Camilla! Congrats! I LOVE my dress! AND. I love-L O V E!! ♥️ and there is nothing anyone can say or do that will change that. #vmas #postivevibes

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Madonna says she never intended to pay “tribute” to Aretha Franklin at the 2018 VMAs