Recording Academy President Neil Portnow told reporters backstage at Monday's Grammys that Hill's absence was a disappointment to everyone. "Our intention was, and we were ready, right up to the moment of the performance, for her to step up on stage," he said, restating that Hill had attended rehearsals at Los Angeles' Staples Center earlier on Monday but just didn't show up later for the actual show. "She was there for it, completed it and left the building. And then she did not get back in time to make the show. I'm sorry, that's the bottom line. That's the truth. That's unfortunate. I guess those things happen."
Hill was supposed to perform with The Weeknd, who still managed on his own with versions of his hits "In the Night" and "Can't Feel My Face."
Now Hill's camp has responded, again blaming the Grammys for announcing her performance ahead of the show when she had not guaranteed she would make it to perform at the ceremony.
"In regards to the comments this morning from The Grammys, CBS did announce Ms. Hill's performance, there were official Grammy television ads that ran for a couple of days naming Ms. Hill as a performer on the show," the statement said. "Her camp was unhappy about this. They had made it clear from the start that although Ms. Hill was going to attempt to make the show, she could not confirm, as there were too many logistical issues that could potentially prevent the performance from happening. The performance was also supposed to be a surprise. This was discussed with Grammy organizers, and the TV spots were pulled. As previously mentioned, Ms.Hill attempted a last minute rush to LA, to see if this could happen, but unfortunately timing that day kept it from being a reality. Ms. Hill truly appreciated the invitation, and the efforts made by all parties to try and make the performance happen."
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