Virus delays latest Verzuz battle
Verzuz postponed its battle between Ashanti and Keyshia Cole after Ashanti tested positive for COVID19.
On Saturday night, Ashanti shared on Instagram that she had tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of the event.
“Hey y’all I can’t believe I’m saying this but I tested positive for COVID-19,” the singer wrote. “I’m ok and not in any pain. I’m actually down to do the Verzuz from my house … we’re trying to figure it all out!!!”
Under an hour later, Verzuz revealed its decision to postpone the battle, writing: “Unfortunately, we have to postpone tonight’s @Ashanti vs @ KeyshiaCole #VERZUZ. Ashanti tested positive for COVID-19 beforehand, and we cannot put anyone at risk in the process. First time this has struck us so close to showtime. We apologize to our incredible audience!
“Get well soon, Ashanti. Wear a mask, stay inside, and take COVID-19 seriously. It’s truly affecting our community.”
The battle’s new date is Jan. 9.
Verzuz was created by Timbaland and Swizz Beatz during the COVID19 pandemic. The web series puts two hip-hop or R&B stars head-tohead as they play through their respective discographies during a three-hour session. Some of Verzuz’s most notable battles include Teddy Riley and Babyface, Erykah Badu and Jill Scott, Brandy and Monica, Ludacris and
Nelly and Young Jeezy and Gucci Mane.
Questions about Pride’s death:
It didn’t take long after news broke Saturday that legendary country musician Charley Pride died of complications from COVID-19 for musicians
and industry professionals to speculate whether he contracted the virus at the Country Music Association Awards, which took place on Nov. 11 in person though socially distant.
Among those to posit such a connection was Maren Morris, who tweeted, “I don’t want to jump to conclusions because no family statement has been made, but if this was a result of the CMAs being indoors, we should all be outraged. Rest in power, Charley.”
Brandi Carlile, in response to Morris’ tweet, also weighed in, writing, “Honestly you’re right to acknowledge what everyone is wondering & as usual YOU have a lot to lose for asking the question. Thank you for being human. Whether that was the place he got it or notthey endangered him & it easily could have been. It’s quietly bothered me for weeks.”
In response, the CMAs and representatives of the late artist issued a statement detailing the COVID protocols put in place for the awards show, which honored Pride with the
Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award.
“Everyone affiliated with the CMAAwards followed strict testing protocols outlined by the city health department and unions,” the official statement began. “Charley was tested prior to traveling to Nashville. He was tested upon landing in Nashville, and again on show day, with all tests coming back negative. After returning to Texas following the CMA Awards, Charley again tested negative multiple times. All of us in the Country Music community are heartbroken by Charley’s passing. Out of respect for his family during their grieving period, we will not be commenting on this further.”
Pride, the first modern Black superstar of country music, was 86.
Dec. 14 birthdays: Actor Hal Williams is 86. Bassist Cliff Williams is 71. Singer-guitarist Mike Scott is 62. Actor Archie Kao is 51. Actor Natascha McElhone is 51. Actor Miranda Hart (is 48. Actor Vanessa Hudgens is 32. Singer Tori Kelly is 28.