Chile, Gospel Singer's Statement Backfires: Kim Burrell issued an apology and a warning to critics
Photo: Paras Griffin/Getty/ Illustration: EEW Magazine
By Tiffany Hartwell // Controversy // EEW Magazine Online
Gospel singer Kim Burrell, who finds herself in hot water over a viral video of her recent comments suggesting churchgoers were “ugly” and disparaging those of low means, said in a new statement, “If anyone was offended” by her controversial commentary, “I apologize.”
In addition to the apology issued by the “Try Me Again” singer, 49, she released a pointed word of warning to critics who, in her view, have created “false statements and narratives” tantamount to “slander and defamation.”
She essentially said, try me not – unless you are prepared to face legal action resulting in “punitive damages.”
Photo: Getty / Illustration: EEW Magazine
“My intention is never to hurt anyone, but to spread love, laughter and more importantly, the gift which God has given me in song,” said the Grammy-nominated recording artist.
So, what did she say at Pastor Brian Carn’s Kingdom City Church that ruffled more than a few feathers?
“Sometimes, before we get friends, we have to do an interview, and ask, “How long have you been broke? How many times have you changed your name on your light bill?” said Burrell in a viral video clip before ministering in song. “How many of your bills [are] in your little cousin’s name? Do you live in a trailer home or a house?”
Many speaking out against the skilled and privileged songbird’s condescending statements pointed out that Jesus gave love, grace, and dignity to the poor rather than shame them for their hardships.
Though Burrell did express contriteness, she also made it known that she is willing to go after those responsible for “what is both written and said (via video) about me, especially if it contains untruths.”
In defense of her “brand,” she added, “Those pages wherein vile comments and false narratives have been created have been noted, reported, and hopefully silenced.”
Even so, there are thousands of voices all over social media which cannot be silenced and have made Burrell’s story trend. Though the responses have been mixed – with some standing up for Burrell and others lighting into her – the overwhelming majority of feedback has indeed been negative.
“Again, I will apologize if anyone thought that my humor was malicious, but I will not under any circumstance tolerate harassment, slander, or for my character to be defamed,” said Burrell.
She is also being condemned for perceived snide remarks made toward pastors that received the government issued “PPP loan”—Paycheck Protection Program—during the COVID-19 pandemic to relieve the financial burden caused by loss of revenue.
“Best to all,” Burrell concluded at a time when things are arguably the worst for her.
UPDATE: Kim Burrell issues a new video apology on July 20, 2022. Watch below.
