The 2021 BET Awards ended weeks ago but people can’t stop raving over the extraordinary performances. Specifically, fans can’t get enough of the kiss Lil Nas X shared with his dancer during his live BET Awards performance of his new track “MONTERO.” Not only did the rapper’s Michael Jackson “Remember The Time” tribute stun fans, the music video ties in themes of homosexuality and biblical ideals, leading to mixed reactions from audiences and an immense backlash from critics. Lil Nas X was not shy however to clapback at the haters.
Luckily, plenty of people have praised his courage to freely express his sexuality. Though, the most surprising praise came from legendary singer Patti LaBelle.
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The Godmother of Soul has remained a long-time supporter of the LGBTQ community and isn’t afraid to stand up for the underrepresented. During a recent interview, Miss LaBelle shared a few encouraging words about Lil Nas X’s 2021 BET Performance.
The Godmother of Soul recently sat down with SiruisXM Urban View’s The Clay Cane Show to promote the 20th anniversary of her cookbook “LaBelle Cuisine: Recipes To Sing About.” In doing so, the 77-year-old music vet offered some social commentary on Lil Nas X kiss with his backup dancer at the BET Awards.
“Lil Nas X came out, he kissed the man on the BET Awards, and it was what he wanted to do. Does that make him a bad person? No, he did himself. I say keep on doing you…” the legend told radio host Clay Cane.
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In closing remarks, Patti LaBelle kept things real when she added, “Some people are intimidated by certain people and there is no need to be. Just do you, and don’t step on anybody’s toes, just do you and God will bless you.”
Patti LaBelle made it clear that Lil Nas X has the right to express himself and his sexuality.
It’s no wonder that Patti LaBelle has remained such a prominent gay icon throughout the years. The Walk of Hall of Famer welcomes everyone with open arms, no matter their sexual preference or orientation. Her immediate support of Lil Nas X’s controversial kiss with a backup dancer, sends out a clear message to the LGBTQ community. LaBelle believes everyone deserves respect and acceptance.
During a recent interview with Page Six, the 77-year-old even hailed herself as the “original Drag Queen.”
According to the singer, she used to wear “crazy hair, crazy makeup and clothes” during the earlier years of her career. Arguably, everyone during the 60’s and 70’s wore pretty outlandish ensembles. Though, no one could quite compete with Patti LaBelle.
Throughout the several decades of her career, she amassed and managed a huge following over social media, including several individuals from the LGBTQ. Of course, they idolize her but it’s more than just fan appreciation.
LaBelle credits her “all are welcomed” attitude as being the main reason she has so many fans in the gay community.
“And I think they saw [in] me someone that they could spill their hearts to. And they just follow me . . . I love gay people. I love all people,” the star told Page Six. Clearly, Patti LaBelle has a big heart and welcomes people from all walks of life.