Aretha Franklin was criticized for making an early exit for fundraising soiree put on by President Obama and the first lady at the home of actress Sarah Jessica Parker to attend another event for which she says she was already committed to.
“I am a big fan of President Obama. He is very concerned about all people,” says Franklin.
“I arrived at 5 p.m. and left at 7:30 p.m. I socialized with Meryl Streep, Michael Kors, Anna Wintour, Courtney Ross of the Ross School in the Hamptons and the President and First Lady after they arrived. We took lots of pictures and had a beautiful chat. I explained to them I had to leave for the Songwriters Hall of Fame Dinner, which was scheduled some time ago with Clive Davis, with whom I am collaborating on a late summer CD. The President and First Lady certainly understand and know about attending more than one event in an evening,” said Franklin.
Franklin, who loves beautiful homes, had high praise for Sarah Jessica Parker’s.
“I love the old world charm of her home and the pantry in her kitchen. I got to watch the executive chefs preparing delightful delicacies for the evening!” she added.
