Chris Brown has spent years as one of the most commercially successful artists in the industry, yet his influence is often overlooked. While he hasn’t been a critical darling in over a decade, his ability to craft hit records has remained consistent. He understands what his audience wants, and right now, that happens to be the viral “Residuals” challenge.
The challenge, based on Brown’s 2024 track of the same name, has taken social media by storm. Fans and fellow artists have contributed their own verses, but the most shocking participant has been disgraced R&B singer R Kelly, who released his own version from prison. The unexpected remix generated buzz, and while some were quick to distance themselves from it, Brown recently acknowledged the challenge’s success and expressed his gratitude to all involved—including Kelly.
Chris Brown Acknowledges “Residuals” Challenge Success
Taking to Instagram, Brown shared his appreciation for those who have contributed to the trend.
“I just wanna take this time to show my thanks and love for everyone who is doing the ‘Residuals’ challenge,” he wrote. “I’m glad it’s giving people the opportunity to be seen and heard.”
He then doubled down on his belief that the challenge is proof that R&B remains relevant.
“Real R&B isn’t dead,” Brown asserted. “And I thank you for showing me that.”
While Brown has never shied away from controversy, it’s unlikely he anticipated R Kelly’s participation. However, the attention surrounding Kelly’s version has only further amplified the challenge’s reach.
Chris Brown and R Kelly’s History
Brown and R Kelly have a history of collaboration, with Kelly being an early supporter of the younger singer’s career. In a 2013 interview with The Guardian, Kelly praised Brown’s resilience, even comparing him to historical figures.
“He’s obviously one strong individual to be able to do what he’s done,” Kelly said. “He got knocked down a little bit and he climbed up. You know, that sounds like Ali to me. That sounds like Martin Luther King to me.”
Brown, in turn, has cited Kelly as a major musical influence. However, both artists have faced significant controversy, leading to debates about their legacies.
Other artists have distanced themselves from both singers in recent years. Tinashe, for example, voiced her regret over past collaborations, stating in 2023:
“That is so embarrassing. That is so unreal that I even have a song with R Kelly,” she said. “That’s so embarrassing.”
Despite the controversies, Brown and Kelly remain two of the best-selling R&B artists of all time. Brown’s ability to generate hits and keep fans engaged, as evidenced by the “Residuals” challenge, is a testament to his staying power—even if his popularity is often taken for granted.
