Anita Baker moving forward with her Songstress Tour without legendary singer/songwriter/producer Babyface. According to the “Sweet Love” singer, she was being cyberbullied and verbally abused by his fan base.
How it started:
The pair’s May 10 show at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey faced lengthy delays due to technical issues, after which the crowd was told that Babyface’s set was canceled in order for Baker to deliver her full performance.
In a statement to PEOPLE at the time, the 12-time Grammy winner explained that production crews were unable to get a video screen running in time for his performance.
“As advanced as technology is today we are sometimes at its mercy. The video wall was unfortunately not working that day and time wasn’t on our side,” said Babyface, noting that he’ll perform at the tour’s Long Island, New York stop on Friday.
“I am incredibly sorry to the fans and have nothing but love and respect for Anita,” continued his statement. “I am very much looking forward to continuing our tour together and will see everyone tomorrow.”
After canceling Babyface’s performance at a New Jersey show last month due to technical issues, Baker spoke out via Twitter earlier this week about receiving threats from his supporters.
Some of the tweets to Baker were:
On Tuesday, she took to the social media platform to announce Babyface’s removal from the remainder of the tour.
“After Silently, Enduring Cyber Bulling/Verbal Abuse & Threats of Violence from the Fan Base, of Our Special Guest/Support Act. In the Interest of Personal Safety. I will continue, The Songstress Tour, alone,” tweeted Baker, 65. “Appropriate refunds will be made.”
According to Baker, Babyface was scheduled as a special guest/supporting act on her tour.
Babyface, real name Kenny Edmonds, shared his disappointment on social media.
“I am saddened by the news that Anita Baker has decided to remove me from ‘The Songstress Tour,'” he wrote. “It’s unfortunate and disheartening to see how things have played out via social media.”
He continued, “While I was looking forward to the rest of the dates, I have nothing but love & respect for Anita and I wish her the best for the remainder of the tour.”
Many people were heartbroken by the dismissal of Babyface, including fellow singer/songwriter Tank.
“Just can’t stand by and not talk about the truth of it all. My apologies @babyface but i’m not as meek and mild mannered as you are.” He added on social media, “It is a flaw of mine but somebody has to say something!. R&B MONEY”
We hate that this went down between two talented and gifted artists. The Songstress Tour is set to continue on June 30 with a show at the United Center in Chicago. Hopefully, Babyface will land another gig or even start his own tour. We’ll see.
