Back in 2001, something very, very, strange happened: Eminem and Elton John performed a duet at the Grammys.
Yes, Elton John, a musical legend and PROUD gay man, teamed up with a rapper fond of homophobic slurs.
What most people don’t remember or know was the two were and ARE good friends.
It all started when it was announced that Eminem would perform at the Grammys, a move that enraged the LGBT community. Some people were so offended by the choice that they PROTESTED outside of the Staples Center the night of the Grammys.
So, why would Elton involve himself in such a controversial situation?
According to the musical maverick, he believed that Eminem’s lyrics were not a representation of his true feelings but rather an expression of his alter ego.
To show his support of Eminem, Elton decided to perform alongside the rapper, lending his voice for Dido‘s sample on Stan.
Check out the performance (below)!
The world was especially shocked when Eminem and Elton HUGGED!!
Post-performance, it was revealed that Elton had helped Eminem recover from his drug addiction and the two spoke frequently. Eminem even sent Elton and his husband a wedding present!
Elton revealed:
“When David and I had our civil partnership, he sent us a present. In a case, on velvet cushions, were two diamond cock rings. So there’s a homophobe for you.”
So crazy!
While some people might not agree with Elton and Eminem’s friendship, it’s undeniable that the performance was anything but forgettable.