Chrisette Michele’s quiet acceptance of Donald Trump’s invitation to perform at the upcoming presidential inauguration isn’t going over well. Although the singer’s decision almost went unnoticed, it didn’t go unnoticed for long.
Like many other performers, Chrisette Michele found herself at the center of controversy when news about the performance made headlines. As expected, many have dragged her for deciding to perform for a president-elect who’s widely known for his alleged regard, or lack thereof, for African-Americans, immigrants, and other minorities. Now, the singer has written an open letter explaining her decision.
Her Response:
According to Billboard, Chrisette Michele penned the open later and published it on her blog. The singer spoke of serving as a “bridge” for the people and being a “voice for the voiceless.”
Here’s the full letter:
“My heart is broken for our country, for the hopes of our children, for the fights of those who came before us. I cry at the thought that Black History, American History might be in vain. This country has had great moments. God has shined His light upon us.
Today, I hope that Great Moments begin in peaceful & progressive conversation. I am willing to be a bridge. I don’t mind “These Stones”, if they allow me to be a voice for the voiceless. I am here. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “Our lives begin to end, the day we become silent about what matters,”. I am here, representing you, because this is what matters.”
– Chrisette Michele
#NoPoliticalGenius
Hard Backlash:
Although Chrisette Michele opted to offer an explanation for her performance, fans aren’t here for the explanations. Most unfazed social media users and some celebrities wasted no time expressing disdain over the performance. Chrisette Michele has been dragged on so many levels and social media users have been pretty relentless.
I'd pay Chrisette to NOT perform 😔
— ?st (@questlove) January 18, 2017
Me: At#ChrisetteMichele pic.twitter.com/vMSbH2mquD
— MsDimples (@MsNadaNee504) January 18, 2017
#ChrisetteMichele must not Remember what happened to the #DixieChicks #TeamDl!
— DL Hughley (@RealDLHughley) January 19, 2017
But, it gets worse. Spike Lee has also showed Chrisette just how real it’s about to get. The famed director/producer/activist just canceled the singer in a major way. For those who don’t know, Chrisette’s song, “Black Girl Magic,” was set to be used in Spike’s upcoming Netflix remake of She’s Gotta Have It. Now, he’s made it clear the song won’t be featured, reports The Root. He even took to Instagram with his decision.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BPcglyjlkrZ/
