D'Angelo performs Live in Oakland, California (Photo by Ashleigh Reddy for OKP)
D'Angelo performs Live in Oakland, California (Photo by Ashleigh Reddy for OKP)
D'Angelo performs Live in Oakland, California (Photo by Ashleigh Reddy for OKP)
With just over 24 hours until the curtains open on Lean On Him: A Tribute To Bill Withers At Carnegie Hall, it appears that one of the evening's most distinguished and anticipated guests has slipped off the bill due to doctor's orders. The New York Times has reported and we've sadly confirmed that D'Angelo has cancelled his appearance at tomorrow night's star-studded tribute due to unspecified ailments, leaving perhaps the truest member of Withers' bloodline in soul music off the grid for this momentous occasion at one of the world's most heralded stages. Though D did not personally deliver a statement, RCA has expressed his disappointment in not being able to join in on the celebration of such an icon in music. Bill Withers' response echoes our own hopes:
“Aw man, hope D’Angelo recovers quickly from whatever malady has befallen on him. I will miss his version of ‘Use Me.’ I was so looking forward to seeing him throw down with the super band that Greg Phillinganes put together for this event. Come on, D’Angelo! Get well, buddy!”
D'Angelo has also been forced to cancel Sunday's appearance at the Atlanta installment of Afropunk Festival, due to his doctor's orders of “to refrain from any strenuous activity for the next two weeks." Sad indeed, but for those looking to get their D'Angelo/Withers fix, we'll always have this magical moment to hold on to:
