Legendary singer, songwriter, and producer Babyface found himself in an awkward moment at the 67th Grammy Awards when two Associated Press journalists abruptly ended their interview with him to speak with Chappell Roan instead. The exchange, which unfolded live on AP’s YouTube stream, quickly went viral and sparked outrage on social media.
During the interview, AP reporters Leslie Ambriz and Krysta Fauria were speaking with Babyface, a 12-time Grammy winner, when they spotted Roan, a rising artist with six nominations, approaching on the carpet. The shift in their focus was evident, prompting Babyface to ask, “You guys wanna take that?” Sensing their eagerness to pivot, he handed over the mic, adding, “Go take that.” Ambriz, clearly flustered, apologized, “I’m so sorry, Babyface. I’m so sorry.”
The moment did not go unnoticed. Fans were quick to call out the perceived disrespect toward an industry icon. One social media user wrote:
“Hey @AP, you need to have a serious conversation with your employees. Cutting off the musical icon that is Babyface mid-sentence to talk to Chappell Roan is incredibly disrespectful—especially during Black History Month.”
As the backlash grew, many highlighted Babyface’s impact on R&B and pop music over the last four decades. Born Kenneth Edmonds, he has been instrumental in shaping modern music, penning and producing hits for Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Toni Braxton, Boyz II Men, Beyoncé, and countless others. His own chart-topping songs include “Whip Appeal,” “Every Time I Close My Eyes,” and “When Can I See You.” With over 200 songwriting and production credits, his influence is undeniable.
While the reporters later acknowledged the awkward moment and expressed hope of continuing the conversation with Babyface in the future, social media users made it clear: Respect for music legends should never take a backseat.
