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After its red-carpet reporters cut off Babyface for Chappell Roan, the AP apologizes

BBG News

The Associated Press has offered an apology to the renowned R&B artist and songwriter Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, following a cringe-worthy incident at the 2025 Grammy Awards red carpet, where their reporters were criticized for an awkward moment instigated by Chappell Roan.

On Monday, the reliable news outlet expressed regret for having to abruptly end their interview with Babyface on the red carpet on Sunday. They also reached out and apologized to the 13-time Grammy award winner through his representatives in addition to their public apology to readers.

On Sunday, AP broadcasted live from the Grammys red carpet in downtown L.A., with Leslie Ambriz, Krysta Fauria, and Gary Gerard Hamilton leading the coverage. They interacted with attendees and nominees, capturing their stylish Sunday looks. Around 2½ hours into the broadcast, Babyface (dressed in a sparkling lapel dark suit) joined Ambriz and Fauria for a chat.

Music

At last, Beyoncé was awarded Album of the Year. The event showcased musical acts by Chappell Roan, Doechii, Sabrina Carpenter, Charli XCX, Billie Eilish and more, while the ongoing L.A. wildfires were frequently brought up in conversation.

In a conversation with AP, the 65-year-old producer discussed the music community’s support for Los Angeles following the destructive fires last month and the therapeutic power of music during difficult times. However, the dialogue took an uncomfortable turn when Ambriz brought up the growing influence of women in R&B. As Babyface started to respond, Fauria interrupted by summoning Roan, a 26-year-old pop star, repeatedly, disrupting the ongoing interview.

“You guys want to take that?,” Babyface asked after noticing what Fauria was doing. “Go do that.”

“So sorry, Babyface,” Ambriz said, then quickly welcomed Roan.

Video clips showing a sudden shift in events became widely popular on social networks, drawing criticism from users such as Khloé Kardashian and multiple Grammy award-winner Dionne Warwick. On Sunday, Warwick expressed her confusion on Twitter, asking “Is this what I think it is?

In a second tweet, the singer who is known for “That’s What Friends Are For” tagged AP (Associated Press) and posted a picture of a dictionary definition for “decorum.

Awards

Instead of being the central theme as promised by the Grammy organizers, the fires ended up serving merely as a prop or scenic element, overshadowing the profound human impact and magnitude of the disaster.

Kardashian criticized the journalists for their “impolite” behavior towards Babyface, expressing her admiration for the producer’s “substantial influence on the music world.” She emphasized that he is “due for much more respect and recognition.

She commented: “By the way, regardless of size or age, one should never mistreat others. In my view, there’s an appropriate way to address situations, and this particular approach was incorrect.

Ernest Dukes, acting as Babyface’s representative, posted a video on his Instagram story, labeling it a “professional lapse” and describing the actions of Associated Press reporters as “far from appropriate” and “extremely disrespectful.” In another post, Dukes highlighted his client’s impressive career accomplishments, such as numerous Grammy awards and an extensive list of chart-topping hits.

Throughout his long and distinguished career, Babyface has worked with numerous artists such as Usher, Toni Braxton, Madonna, Mary J. Blige, Aretha Franklin, and more recently, SZA. In the 2024 Grammy Awards, he received a Grammy for his contribution to SZA’s “Snooze,” which won the award for Best R&B Song.

Ahead of this coming Sunday’s event, the performer known for “Hot to Go!” has secured six nominations. On winning the award for best new artist, she took the stage to urge record labels to enhance their support for emerging talents by providing them with fair wages and healthcare benefits.

Fauria and Ambriz had already apologized for the snub at the end of their pre-show livestream.

Fauria stated, “There was quite a fuss, much like you’d find on these rugs. However, I must clarify that I’m a huge fan of Babyface, as we all are, and I simply want to express my sincere apologies.

Ambriz shared with her audience that unexpected incidents, beyond anyone’s control, may occur at high-profile events such as award show red carpets. She elaborated that backstage demands might interfere with journalists’ wishes to carry on discussions and expressed enthusiasm about talking to Babyface in the future.

Music

2021’s roster of leading contenders features artists such as Beyoncé, Charli XCX, Billie Eilish, Kendrick Lamar, Post Malone, Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan, and Taylor Swift.

Or, in a more casual tone:
This year’s list of front-runners includes Beyoncé, Charli XCX, Billie Eilish, Kendrick Lamar, Post Malone, Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan, and Taylor Swift.

Or, for a more conversational style:
Here’s who’s in the running this year: Beyoncé, Charli XCX, Billie Eilish, Kendrick Lamar, Post Malone, Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan, and Taylor Swift.

She went on to say, “I wish I had taken greater action to prevent it, but I’m extremely glad that he decided to approach us initially.

“It was unfortunate, but also these things happen,” Hamilton added.

Duke didn’t initially reply to The Times’ query for a statement on Monday, yet it seems that his client has already dismissed the incident without a second thought.

According to Babyface, through Dukes, the most memorable aspect of that night was catching up with long-lost friends, encountering fresh talent, and sensing the abundance of affection in the atmosphere. That’s what will stay with him. That’s the essence. Music transcends any single instance; my heartfelt appreciation goes out to all the winners and those creating fantastic music right now. (USA Today)

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2025-02-04 00:31

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