Prince Fans Question John Legend’s “Let’s Go Crazy” Rendition At Democratic National Convention

John Legend‘s Prince tribute at the Democratic National Convention has been one of the most discussed musical moments of the evening, as the reaction to his performance has ranged from lackluster to complimentary.

On Wednesday evening (Aug. 21), the Grammy Award winning singer took the DNC stage at Chicago’s United Center for a rendition of Prince‘s classic song, “Let’s Go Crazy” and was joined by longtime Prince collaborator, Sheila E.

While some viewers and attendees found the performance enjoyable, others cringed at Legend’s attempt at channeling Prince, with many of the latter expressing their sentiments on social media.

Musicians Sheila E. and John Legend rehearse prior to the start of the third day of the Democratic National Convention (DNC) at the United Center on August 21, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. Delegates, politicians, and Democratic party supporters are in Chicago for the convention, concluding with current Vice President Kamala Harris accepting her party’s presidential nomination. The DNC takes place from August 19-22.

Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images

One commenter reacted by expressing her enjoyment of the performance, but felt that John Legend wasn’t the appropriate choice to lead the tribute.

“Who the hell decided that John Legend was the perfect pick to perform Let’s Go Crazy,” one person asked. “Don’t do that sh*t again. Sheila E. and that guitarist alone was fire!” Another commenter echoed that sentiment, writing “Let me say this with all the disrespect intended – who the **** invited John Legend & why the **** is he covering The Purple One?!?!” on X.”

Other grievances regarding the tribute included the contrast between Prince and Legend’s “singing styles,” while some simply found any attempt to replicate the late artist’s gifts as fruitless. “It’s a testament to Prince and his immense talent that even a performer so effortlessly perfect as John Legend looks square and unconvincing trying to pull off one of his songs,” on social media user posted in reaction to the tribute.

Singer Prince performs onstage during the 2007 NCLR ALMA Awards held at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium on June 1, 2007 in Pasadena, California.

Kevin Winter/Getty Images for NCLR

John Legend’s Prince tribute was one of multiple performances during the Democratic National Convention, as Lil Jon, Patti LaBelle, Mickey Guyton, and more also took the stage. Legend’s apperance preceded that of Minnesota governor Tim Walz, who accepted the parties nomination for Vice President. Current Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to accept the Democratic nomination for President on Thursday evening (Aug. 22).

See John Legend’s Prince tribute below.