It’s not unusual for singers like Brian McKnight to get offered an opportunity to sing at colleges and universities. But what transpired after his recent offer was made public is something that’s garnered hilarious reactions from folks online. Don’t worry, we’ll explain.
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As we’ve well-documented over the years, McKnight’s personal life has arguably made more waves than his professional accolades thanks to his contentious relationship with his eldest and estranged children– whom he had with his first wife, Julie. His fans have also had an unfortunate front row seat to his relationship dynamics with his children, including one instance in 2024 when he referenced his two sons as “products of sin.” Since then, things have gone even more downhill with the “Anytime” singer’s reputation severely souring.
That’s why it was interesting when he was announced as the guest entertainer for Claflin University’s Presidential Scholarship Gala. But in a plot twist McKnight probably didn’t see coming, the school recently announced that they were instead “exploring options” with regard to his presence on the campus for the event.
“Claflin University values and respects the perspectives of our constituents and stakeholders,” said Claflin University President Dr. Dwaun J. Warmack in a recent statement. “We take your concerns regarding the artist for the Scholarship Gala seriously and are currently exploring options. Thank you for your loyal and continued support as we work to ensure this event is a beacon of light for our institution while raising needed funds to support student scholarships.”
Once the news began to make the rounds on social media, many couldn’t help but find the decision to be comical and well-deserved for the controversial singer.
“Claflin Alum was not playing around. Talking about having BrianMcKnight sing at their gala,” one user wrote with laughing emojis on X. “They said I think TF not.”
“Claflin students done bullied the school into not letting Brian mcknight perform on campus and that what e ass get [sic],” said another.
One user noted: “A school that listens to their students and alumni feelings is great. Claflin got that backlash for having Brian McKnight come perform and now they’re looking to get someone else.”
Added another, “Claflin booking Brian McKnight for a Scholarship event wasn’t well thought out. I mean you’re trying to RAISE money…”
However, there were a few who were coming to McKnight’s defense.
“Who cares about Brian McKnight personal life. Claflin is a very small school in Orangeburg. They need whoever they can book to help them raise scholarship money,” one user said on X. “Do not let fools on social media miss out on an opportunity to get that money. Old black folks love Brian McKnight.”
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