In a move that stunned both the tech and music industries, Elon Musk has reportedly issued an ultimatum to soul and R&B legend Patti LaBelle. According to insiders, Musk invited LaBelle to perform five songs at Tesla’s upcoming launch event for its much-rumored “water engine.” The deal, allegedly valued at a staggering ten-figure price tag, has sparked global speculation.

The proposed event is said to be one of Tesla’s most ambitious showcases yet. Musk, known for blending spectacle with innovation, wants the unveiling of the water engine to be remembered as a cultural and historic moment. Bringing in Patti LaBelle, a powerhouse voice who has influenced generations, would certainly add gravity to the occasion.

However, sources close to LaBelle suggest that she did not immediately accept Musk’s proposition. Instead, she allegedly responded with just five short words, words that insiders claim left Musk’s team momentarily stunned. The exact phrase remains undisclosed, but industry chatter hints it was a mix of empowerment and sharp wit—classic Patti.

If true, this exchange marks one of the boldest crossovers between Silicon Valley and music history. Tesla’s water engine, rumored to operate on hydrogen-extraction technology, has already been described as a potential “world-changer.” Pairing that with an icon like Patti LaBelle could signal Musk’s desire to bridge technology with soul, science with humanity.

Fans are divided on social media. Some believe this is a publicity stunt designed to generate hype around both Tesla and LaBelle. Others argue that Musk is serious, pointing to his history of securing surprising partnerships—whether sending a Tesla Roadster into space or collaborating with pop stars in previous announcements.

For LaBelle, the proposal could mean more than just a lucrative performance. At 80 years old, she remains a beloved figure in American culture, admired for her resilience, artistry, and influence on generations of singers. A Tesla collaboration would not only be unexpected but could also redefine her legacy for a new global audience.

As of now, neither Tesla nor Patti LaBelle’s representatives have released official statements. Still, the five words LaBelle allegedly delivered have sparked endless speculation online. Whether they were a refusal, a playful tease, or a powerful negotiation tactic, one thing is certain: this story has merged the worlds of innovation and soul in a way no one could have predicted.