Fiona Apple’s first show on her joint tour with Blake Mills ended with heckling and an emotional conclusion. This news comes after the media firestorm that ensued after Apple walked off the stage at a performance in Japan last August.
It has not been an easy few month for iconic artist, Fiona Apple. In August, 2013 she faced criticism for walking off-stage during a performance in Japan, where she responded with a loud and clear ‘no apologies’ note.
All of the drama seemed to subside, and her collaborative project with Chipotle for their sustainable farming awareness video took the spotlight. Fans had been vocal about their anticipation of seeing Blake Mills in concert with their beloved Fiona, and videos like their “I Know” duet sparked an excitement for their Fall 2013 tour. So, when another heckling incident hit the news wire, critics and music lovers were shocked and concerned. According to Dave Greenwald of The Oregonian, the first half of Apple and Mills’ performance was incredible and even notes that Fiona was ‘in the zone.’ With only the few songs left in the performance, a heckler shouted from the audience, and the whole evening changed.
“Get healthy, we want to see you in 10 years,” a woman shouted from the crowd.
Fiona was sitting at her piano and turned, visibly upset.
“I am healthy,” Fiona said.
Apple stood up and asked that the lights come up in the midst of continued heckling from the audience and shouts of encouragement intertwined in the crowds’ banter. The original heckler was escorted out of the venue, and after walking off stage for a moment, Blake and Fiona performed one final song, cutting the performance short. In tears, Fiona apologized to her fans and exited the stage.
“A historically stupid night.” Apple’s remarks about the turn of events during her Portland show heckling.
Fiona Apple and Blake Mills will continue on their tour, and will be playing on October 7th at Walt Disney’s Concert Hall in Los Angeles.