R&B legend Anita Baker has found herself in hot water with fans once again over a recent concert cancelation. On May 12th, the “Giving You The Best That I Got” singer was scheduled to perform at Atlanta’s State Farm Arena for a special Mother’s Day weekend show. However, those in attendance were left sorely disappointed when the show was abruptly canceled minutes before it was set to begin.
The venue issued a terse email citing “late, unforeseen circumstances” as the reason for the cancelation, noting that ticket holders would receive refunds. But the lack of a clear explanation did little to appease frustrated fans who had been eagerly awaiting Baker’s performance.
On social media, the cancelation sparked outrage, with some fans lashing out at the iconic singer. One person claimed their aunt texted the family group chat calling Baker an “unreliable b*tch” after the news broke. Others shared videos of themselves waiting in line at the arena, only to have their Mother’s Day plans dashed.
“I was excited to see Anita Baker today. This was my Mother’s Day gift to myself and how about she canceled the concert while we were standing in line!” wrote TikTok user @cocanails, who said they spent $180 on a ticket and $55 for parking.
The abrupt Atlanta cancelation is just the latest instance of drama surrounding Baker’s live shows in the past year. In December 2023, she scolded fans for using their phones during a Houston concert. And last summer, a tour with Babyface was cut short amid rumors of diva-like behavior from Baker.
As fans vent their disappointment online, the 65-year-old music icon has yet to publicly address why her Mother’s Day weekend show in Atlanta was nixed so close to showtime. But the situation has undoubtedly left many feeling they didn’t get “The Best” from Baker this time around.