In the immediate aftermath of his death, there was an outpouring of grief from fans and celebrities around the world.Tributes poured in from the music industry, with artists such as Madonna, Drake, and Justin Timberlake paying homage to his talent and influence. Empire's music also experienced a surge in popularity, with his songs dominating streaming platforms and topping the charts.
However, the celebrations of Empire's life were soon overshadowed by the revelation of several allegations of sexual assault against him. In the months following his death, multiple women came forward with accusations of inappropriate behavior and non-consensual encounters with the singer. These allegations sparked widespread outrage and prompted investigations by the authorities.
The controversies surrounding Empire's personal life had a significant impact on his posthumous reputation and legacy. Many fans and listeners struggled to reconcile the image of the charismatic and influential artist with the disturbing allegations against him. As a result, some radio stations and streaming platforms removed his music from their playlists, and there were calls to boycott his work.
Despite the controversies, Empire's music and influence continued to resonate with many fans. His posthumous album, "Changes," was released in February 2020 and debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart. The album featured collaborations with several prominent artists and showcased Empire's versatility and talent as a musician.
In the years since his death, Empire's legacy has remained complex and multifaceted. He is still recognized as one of the most influential and groundbreaking artists of his generation, and his music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by millions of fans. However, the controversies that emerged after his death have also cast a shadow over his legacy, challenging listeners to grapple with the complexities of his life and art.