Although Rihanna was unable to perform at the 58th Annual Grammy Awards due to a health concern, the Bajan beauty had something spectacular planned for her stage appearance.
According to late night talk show host, James Corden, the famed singer, who was slated to perform “Kiss It Better” off of her ANTI album, had an Eighties talk show theme prepared for viewership. Corden revealed that he was asked to come on board to be a part of the live production, and shared on his Late Late Show the stages that he went through when he was notified of the opportunity.
“A couple of weeks ago, I was asked if I would introduce Rihanna on the show,” he said. “So I get this phone call saying, ‘Rihanna’s got this big thing planned for her song “Kiss It Better,” and she’s doing like a whole Eighties talk show thing. It’s going to be really cool and what she wants you to do is be like an Eighties talk show.'”
Corden later added that although they had their rehearsals down to a science, he was notified of the cancellation when he reached the red carpet. “…and they say ‘Rihanna has had to pull out of the show. She’s pulled out, she’s been told by a doctor she’s not allowed to sing, it could really damage her voice.’ And I immediately go, ‘I hear what you’re saying, yes. I’ll fill the spot.”
Rih also issued a statement of her own, taking to Twitter to share her disappointment. “#NAVY so sorry I couldn’t be there ….. Thanks Grammys and CBS for your support tonight.”
#NAVY so sorry I couldn’t be there ….. Thanks Grammys and CBS for your support tonight.
— Rihanna (@rihanna) February 16, 2016
The multi-award winner is set to go on her national Anti World Tour beginning Feb. 26 in San Diego, Calif., so there’s a still a possibility that concert attendees will be able to witness what the “Diamonds” singer had planned for the Grammys.