Hollywood, CA – Pop superstar Katy Perry found herself in the crossfire of fans and critics after performing a cover of a classic diva’s song at a rally for Vice President Kamala Harris this past weekend. The performance, intended to energize the crowd and pay homage to an iconic legacy, didn’t land as Perry might have hoped, with fans quick to call it “tone-deaf” and “disrespectful.” Many fans took to social media to express their dismay, claiming the original artist would be “turning in her grave.”
Perry chose to cover the legendary hit, a song that’s long been hailed as an anthem for empowerment and resilience. But rather than striking the right note with the crowd, many in attendance — and fans online — seemed unimpressed, describing Perry’s rendition as lacking the original’s authenticity and soul. “That song has so much emotion, and the original artist poured her heart into it,” wrote one Twitter user. “Katy Perry just didn’t do it justice.”
Some fans went as far as to say that the performance was not only a poor rendition but was “insulting” to the memory of the late diva who originally performed it. Online, users posted clips from the rally and shared mixed reactions, with some praising Perry’s efforts and others insisting that certain songs should be left alone.
Within hours of the performance, #KatyPerry and #KamalaRally were trending on social media. Critics weren’t holding back, with posts like, “Why would you cover a song that no one could ever perform like the original artist?” and “That diva’s memory deserves more respect than a half-hearted rally cover.” Other users chimed in to say that while they appreciated Perry’s effort to honor the song, they felt it missed the mark.
Some fans offered more measured responses, suggesting Perry’s vocal style just didn’t match the powerhouse ballad, which requires a particular emotional depth and gravitas. “Katy’s amazing in her own right, but not every singer can cover a diva’s signature hit,” one fan posted on Instagram. “It’s a tall order, and it just didn’t land.” Others, however, were less forgiving, with one Twitter user adding, “It’s sad to see a classic handled this way. That song has so much power — why reduce it to a pop cover?”
Not all reactions were negative, however. Many of Perry’s loyal fans came to her defense, arguing that she was paying tribute to a great artist and showing her support for an important cause. “Katy’s always been an advocate for empowerment and inclusivity, and she brought that spirit to the rally,” wrote one fan. “People need to lighten up and see the bigger picture.” Some defended her right to perform what she chooses, with a user commenting, “She’s showing love to the song and the artist. People should take it for what it is — a tribute.”
Despite the backlash, Perry and Harris’s team doubled down on their shared message of unity and perseverance. Sources close to Perry said she had chosen the song specifically for its empowering message, hoping it would resonate with the crowd and reflect the rally’s theme. Neither Perry nor her representatives have responded to the criticism directly, but Perry posted on her Instagram afterward, celebrating her performance and the rally’s turnout.
Katy Perry has always been known for her unapologetically bold style and willingness to take risks. While this performance didn’t earn unanimous applause, her reputation for resilience might help her weather the storm. As the debate rages on social media, it remains to be seen whether this misstep will be a momentary blip or if fans will continue to feel let down.
Whether you think Perry’s performance was empowering or ill-advised, it’s clear that the song — and the memory of the original diva — remains beloved by many. And that’s perhaps a testament to its lasting power, even as stars like Perry try to keep it relevant for new audiences.