The controversy surrounding a viral performance by Wendy Shay’s young protégé has drawn an unexpected intervention from the singer’s mother, who has publicly weighed in to address the backlash and clarify where responsibility lies.
The video at the center of the debate shows Tracy Shay performing on stage and urging audience members, including adults, to rise to their feet. The clip circulated widely online and quickly triggered criticism directed at both the child performer and Wendy Shay, whose brand Tracy Shay is closely associated with.
As reactions intensified, Wendy Shay’s mother released a video on X on January 7, 2026, offering her perspective on the incident. In her remarks, she stressed that the performance itself was not the core issue, but rather the decision to take the stage without first informing Wendy Shay.
She described Tracy Shay’s move as disrespectful, arguing that it overlooked the guidance and mentorship Wendy Shay could have offered. According to her, prior communication would have allowed the musician to advise her protégé on stage conduct and audience engagement.
“What all of you are saying on social media is right. Some of you believe that the child’s mother has every right to allow her daughter to perform on any stage she wants, and that is true. However, it would not have been wrong if she had informed her godmother about the show.
“So long as she has the Shay brand attached to her name, it should remind her that Wendy Shay worked hard to build that brand. It would not have cost her anything to inform Wendy Shay. At least she could have coached her on what to do on stage,” she said.
She also pushed back against the wave of insults aimed at Wendy Shay, insisting that the singer had no prior knowledge of the performance. In her view, holding Wendy Shay accountable for an event she did not authorize or attend is unfair.
Wendy Shay’s mother warned that the episode could have wider consequences, particularly for young talents hoping to benefit from the singer’s mentorship in the future. She suggested that public hostility toward Wendy Shay over the issue may discourage her from supporting or working with other aspiring children.
“Those of you saying the child can do anything she wants, I want to tell you that this is the reason why most people refuse to help others.
“There are many children who call me and plead with me, saying they want to join Wendy Shay. I was even advising Wendy to establish a dance school for these children, but because of what is happening now, do you think she would want to do it?” Wendy Shay’s mother further stated.
Watch her remarks below.
