In the days leading up to the Billboard Music Awards, it wasn't clear whether or not Kesha would be making her scheduled performance. But on May 19, a statement from Kemosabe Records made it clear that the singer could take the stage — so long as she didn't use the BBMAs as a platform to discuss the litigation she's entangled in with Dr. Luke.
Whether or not she managed to sneak in a secret message about her current legal troubles is open to interpretation. But one thing is for sure: Fans on social media were thrilled to see her singing live again.
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Kesha is making me cry oh wow
— Ariana's Best Vocals (@badluvs) May 23, 2016
EVERYBODY MUST BE SO EMOTIONAL THINKING ABOUT EVERYTHING KESHA WENT THROUGH NOW SHES STANDING THERE SINGING FROM HER HEART SHES SO STRONG
— yes girl rafa (@drunkbeatrice) May 23, 2016
Kesha's voice is so light, beautiful, and pure. I'm so happy that she's getting a chance to show her talent.
— ️ (@ButeraDemetria) May 23, 2016
glad we have one performance from Kesha to lend some substance to music's least substantial night
— Sam Lansky (@samlansky) May 23, 2016
What an emotional performance by @KeshaRose. So happy ur back in the light & showing everyone the incredible vocals you ALWAYS had ❤️ #BBMAs
— Daniel Preda (@MisterPreda) May 23, 2016
still feel nauseous of just pure joy from @KeshaRose performance #KeshaOnBBMAs #FreeKesha pic.twitter.com/A4krVFhlYz
— #FreeKesha (@hollysuxxx) May 23, 2016
And a truly emotional and moving performance it was. Who knew that Kesha could rock a ballad so beautifully? (Actually, we did know that. It's just been such a long time, we almost forgot.) And can we get a moment to acknowledge how awesome it was to see Ben Folds onstage? A Ben Folds and Kesha collaboration would be incredible. Here's hoping that was a hint that they're becoming a musical duo.