Two legendary singers graced the Verzuz battle Sunday evening, singing live to more than 60,000 viewers streaming the historic event.
Gladys Knight and Patti LaBelle began the battle reminiscing on their start in the music industry and how their friendship has developed, holding the strength of time. The two discussed issues faced during COVID-19 and the union they hope to see in this rough time, as well as the importance of voting in the presidential election.
LaBelle grabbed the attention of younger viewers when she addressed the topic of voting while using the latest lingo.
“I know for a fact we all have to vote,” LaBelle said. “Period pooh.”
Knight followed up by reiterating the significance of voting.
“We’re in control of this but we gotta get up and march to vote and make a difference to make a better world,” Knight said.
The two connected over their love for cooking, family, having the same zodiac sign, and sharing their passion for music with a combined experience of over 150 years in the music industry.
“We hope this music that we have made over the years can make a better place,” said Knight. “Or a better way or a better feeling in their spirits with the music that we’ve done then and the music we continue to do, talking about life and love.”
As the first song played, the two began to dance in their seats with joy as their battle officially began.The artists went back and forth playing songs that brought back memories for them as well as the thousands of viewers watching.
Many house names were in attendance from award-winning actress Viola Davis, former first lady Michelle Obama, to rapper, singer, songwriter and producer, Missy Elliott, to name a few.
“These live vocals will cure 2020,” Oprah Winfrey said.
Fan favorites like “Midnight Train to Georgia,” “Love Overboard” by Gladys Knight and “If only you knew” and “Love, Need and Want You” by Patti LaBelle raised excitement as the two sang live, reminding viewers of their pure talent and rich voices.
The energy that filled the Verzuz, exuded warmth and comfort to the fans watching in such unprecedented times.
In the Swizz Beatz and Timbaland curated series, this battle was sure to be one of the most memorable yet. The showdown between the two greats did not disappoint and even added in a surprise with acclaimed artist Dionne Warwick joining the stage.
Gladys Knight and Patti LaBelle showed what years of sisterhood and friendship should look like as the battle was more of a celebration of the artists and their love for music.