Pink and Christina Aguilera Nearly Came to Blows Over 'Lady Marmalade'

Dani Sanders
Lady Marmalade
Getty | The India Today Group

In 2001, pop icons Pink and Christina Aguilera, along with Lil' Kim and Mya, teamed up to record a cover of the classic song "Lady Marmalade" for the soundtrack of the film "Moulin Rouge." The song became a massive hit, earning a Grammy Award and becoming one of the most successful collaborations ever. However, behind the scenes, tensions were brewing between Pink and Aguilera, and the two reportedly came close to a physical altercation.

The Backstory of Lady Marmalade

"Lady Marmalade" is a song originally recorded in 1974 by the girl group Labelle. The song's popularity skyrocketed, and numerous artists have since covered it.

The 2001 Cover

In 2001, Pink, Christina Aguilera, Lil' Kim, and Mya recorded a cover of "Lady Marmalade" for the film "Moulin Rouge." The cover was a massive hit, staying at the top of the charts for several weeks.

The Recording Process

Recording process
Giphy | varundo

During the recording process, tension began to build between Pink and Aguilera. The two reportedly disagreed over who would sing which parts of the song.

Pink's Account of the Incident

In a 2017 interview with "Watch What Happens Live," Pink recounted the incident, saying that Aguilera was initially supposed to sing the high note on the song's chorus. However, Aguilera didn't show up to the studio when it came time to record the track, leaving Pink to record the high note instead.

Aguilera's Account of the Incident

Christina Aguilera
Flickr | tonym190169

Aguilera has not commented on the incident directly, but in a 2012 interview with Billboard, she addressed the rumors of a feud between her and Pink, saying that they were "total myths."

Pink's Alleged Comment

According to sources, Pink allegedly commented to Aguilera during the recording session, saying, "I'm taking the high notes; you're taking the rest."

Aguilera's Alleged Response

Sources also claim that Aguilera responded to Pink's comment, saying, "Actually, if you let me sing the [expletive] high parts, it would be easier for you to sing the rest of the song."

The Music Video

Lady Marmalade
Giphy | Christina Aguilera

Despite the tension between Pink and Aguilera, the "Lady Marmalade" music video shows the four women having fun and dancing together.

Award Wins

Lady Marmalade Grammy
Giphy | Recording Academy / GRAMMYs

The cover of "Lady Marmalade" won the Grammy Award for Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals in 2002.

Pink and Aguilera Perform Together

American Music Awards
Giphy | AMAs

In 2017, Pink and Aguilera put their differences aside and performed together at the American Music Awards, singing a medley of their respective hits.

Pink's Post on Instagram

After their performance, Pink posted a photo of them on Instagram, captioning it, "Yes, it's possible."

Aguilera's Response

Aguilera also posted a photo on Instagram, writing, "Let's give them something to talk about...@Pink."

Pink's Continued Respect

P!nk
Giphy | The Voice

Despite the tension between the two, Pink has always spoken respectfully of Aguilera in interviews.

Aguilera's Comments

Aguilera
Giphy

In a 2019 interview with Andy Cohen, Aguilera also spoke positively of Pink, saying she had "so much respect for her."

The Importance of Collaboration

You should be professional
Giphy | The Roku Channel

The feud between Pink and Aguilera serves as a reminder of the possible challenges that may arise during collaborations. However, it also shows that even when things get hard, it is vital not to bring personal problems between professional work.

The Impact of "Lady Marmalade" Cover

The cover of "Lady Marmalade" became a huge commercial success and brought attention to the film "Moulin Rouge."

The Significance of the Song

Lady Marmalade
Giphy

The song "Lady Marmalade" has been considered a feminist anthem, celebrating female sexuality and empowerment.

Other Collaborations with Pink and Aguilera

Aguilera
Giphy | Saturday Night Live

Pink and Aguilera have collaborated with other artists throughout their careers, including with other female artists such as Gwen Stefani and Mýa.

Lessons Learned from the Incident

lesson learned
Giphy | VERZUZ

The incident between Pink and Aguilera serves as a lesson on the importance of communication and collaboration in the music industry. It also shows the power of forgiveness and moving forward, as Pink and Aguilera were able to put their differences aside and perform together years later.