Jenny from the block returned home to the Bronx to put on a free concert, but the results were not what she expected. Apparently most residents feel the star is a "sell-out," and neglects her Bronx roots. Why would they say such hurtful things?
The show took place at Orchard Beach in Pelham Bay Park in part of a national music series, sponsored by State Farm Insurance.
"She's been making all this money on Castle Hill but she doesn't even help out the neighborhood," resident Matthew McNally told The New York Post. "Most of the people I know think she's a sellout."
Resident Justin McGinn agreed, adding, "Musically, she's very talented, but I don't think she's done enough for the community."
25,000 free tickets were given away to celebrate the Latina's homecoming. She sang classics such as "If You Had My Love" and "Ain't It Funny," along with songs off the upcoming "A.K.A." album. According to the publication Lopez made references to her Castle Hill childhood throughout.
"I wanted to see what the show was like, but a lot of people I talked to don't like her or want anything to do with her," McGinn admitted.
"They feel like she's a sellout and she took too long to come back."
This was the "American Idol" judge's first time home in 15 years, when her debut album dropped.
"This is such an amazing moment for me. I am so happy to be home. Doing this tonight is honestly a dream come true for me," Lopez exclaimed. "Let me see ya -- where my Latinos at? That's right, we in here!"
Lopez received this year's Icon award at the Billboard Music Awards, "recognizing lifetime achievement and an artist's remarkable and enduring contribution to popular music."
"Jennifer Lopez is one of the most iconic performers of her generation," Larry Klein, producer of the Billboard Music Awards, told E! News. "We are thrilled to honor her historic career with the 2014 Icon Award and will be on the edge of our seats like everyone else when she takes the stage."
Are you surprised about the negative hometown reaction? Let us know why or why not below.