Madonna celebrated the legacy of Aretha Franklin with a controversial tribute at the 2018 MTV Video Music Awards Monday night.
"Aretha Louise Franklin changed the course of my life," she began, before sharing how singing the soul legend's 1967 hit "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" during an audition helped jumpstart her career.
"None of this would have happened, could have happened, without our lady of soul," Madonna said. "She led me to where I am today. And I know she influenced so many people in this house night. In this room tonight. And I want to thank you, Aretha, for empowering all of us... I want to thank you, Aretha, for empowering all of us. R-E-S-P-E-C-T."
She added: "Long live the queen."
Franklin lost her fight with pancreatic cancer last Thursday in her hometown of Detroit at the age of 76.
Many were quick to criticize Madonna self-indulgent speech.
In a response posted on Instagram, Madonna explained: "Just to clarify: I was asked to present video of the year by MTV! And then they asked me to share any anecdotes I had in my career connected to Aretha Franklin! I shared a part of my journey and thanked Aretha for inspiring me along the way.
"I did not intend to do a tribute to her! That would be impossible in 2 minutes with all the noise and tinsel of an award show. I could never do her justice in this context or environment. Unfortunately most people have short attention spans, and are so quick to judge. I love Aretha! R.E.S.P.E.C.T."
Original article by Paris Close at iHeartRadio