Barry White’s Last Words: Six Artists He Could Never Forgive

In his final interview before passing in 2003, Barry White, famed for his smooth voice and romantic hits, revealed a deeper, more painful side—his unresolved betrayals by industry colleagues. What was meant to promote a new project turned into an honest confession of grudges that haunted him to the end.

White listed six artists he claimed had wronged him. The first was a legendary Motown artist who broke a promise to co-produce a major album, only to steal the idea and leave White out of the success. “I trusted him with my music,” White lamented, “but he turned it into his payday.”

The second was an emerging R&B singer whom White supported early in his career. Despite his behind-the-scenes help, the singer never acknowledged White’s contributions, treating him dismissively as just a background figure.

Next was a pop diva who White collaborated with on a duet; after pouring his soul into the track, her team replaced his version with another artist’s, which went on to achieve platinum status. “She played me,” White said, betrayed by a close colleague.

The fourth betrayal involved a trusted friend who sold White’s private stories to tabloids, revealing intimate details of his health and love life. When confronted, this friend denied everything, only to be caught later in emails. “I’d rather forgive a thief,” White said coldly.

The fifth was a young female singer who publicly praised him but secretly refused to credit his songwriting and withheld royalties, taking advantage of his trust. White contemplated legal action but was deterred by declining health and emotional exhaustion.

The sixth was a producer-turned-artist with whom White had a falling out over creative control. After working on an unreleased project, the producer leaked unfinished tracks and disparaged White in interviews, attempting to tarnish his legacy. “He tried to rewrite my story,” White stated.

Throughout his career, White rarely spoke ill of others, but nearing the end of his life, he felt compelled to reveal these wounds. His candid words have sparked controversy and debate, shedding light on how even icons are vulnerable to betrayal and pain. His legacy, once viewed solely through love songs, now also carries stories of heartbreak and disillusionment—reminding us that behind every melody, there are human stories of trust and betrayal.