Chris Brown: 35 Compelling Reasons why he is the undisputed King of R&B
To celebrate Chris Brown at 35, we reflect on his monumental contributions to R&B, and also establish why his impact crowns him as the undisputed leader of the pack.
Within the broad genre of R&B, as we know it today, there is unquestionably one name that stands out above the rest. His name? Christopher Maurice Brown.
Chris Brown is so highly regarded that his impact and influence have extended far and wide, shaping the very nature of the genre itself.
On Breezy’s 35th birthday, we embark on a journey to unravel the multifaceted tapestry of his illustrious career, it becomes abundantly clear why he deserves to own the title of the undisputed “King of R&B”.
In this article, we delve into the depths of his musical mastery, sheer brilliance, and cultural impact, exploring 35 myriad reasons why Chris Brown reigns supreme ahead of his peers in the game.
1. A Discography of Classics
Chris Brown's discography reads like a roadmap through the evolution of modern R&B, marked by a blend of versatility, innovation, and sheer talent.
With each album, he pushed the boundaries of the genre, leaving an indelible mark on the music landscape. From his self-titled debut album in 2005, which catapulted him into the limelight with hits like "Run It!" and "Yo (Excuse Me Miss)”, to Exclusive in 2007 with tracks like "Wall to Wall" and "With You", solidifying Brown's status as an R&B sensation.
Following his nightmare affair with the crosshairs of justice, Brown returned with F.A.M.E. (2011) - winning a Grammy for Best R&B Album in the face of chronic adversity.
The following year, Brown released arguably the most cohesive R&B album of 2012, with Fortune, only to end up with a shocking snub at the Grammys.
He returned with X in 2014, before releasing a ridiculous 45-track album Heartbreak on a Full Moon in 2017 to establish his audacious versatility and creativity. Indigo’s release in 2019 further cemented Brown's status as a musical powerhouse as the album delivered hit after hit, including "No Guidance" and "Under The Influence" — both songs surpassing 1 Billion streams each on Spotify.
With 11:11 in 2023, Brown continued to push the boundaries of R&B. Despite not being released as a single, the album's opening track "Angel Numbers / Ten Toes" soared to become its most successful song, reaching the top ten in several countries.
The 11:11 album also received positive reviews by music critics, with several notable publications, including Billboard, Rated R&B, Yardbarker and HotNewHipHop putting 11:11 among the best R&B albums of 2023.
2. Chart-Topping and Touring triumphs
If we begin to list Chris Brown’s chart achievements, this article might never be finished.
Brown’s catalogue of achievements are quite lengthy, so during the course of this journey, we will break them down gradually.
With multiple number-one singles and albums to his name, the great one has shattered records previously thought unbreakable, solidifying his status as a true icon of the genre.
As of 2024, Chris Brown is no.1 for: the most top 40 hits of any R&B singer in history, the most RIAA Gold-certified singles of any male singer in history, and the most RIAA multi-Platinum singles of any male singer in history.
Chris Brown is one of the highest grossing African American touring artists of all time, having totalled more than $200 million from touring between 2006 - 2023.
Brown has headlined multiple arena tours in North America, Europe and World-Wide.
He has co-headlined two separate North American tours with Trey Songz and Lil Baby and served as a supporting and guest act on tours and festivals for industry peers such as Rihanna, Drake, Lil Wayne and Beyoncé.
3. He holds the record for the most Vevo certifications among male R&B artists
Launched in June 2012, Vevo Certified is given from Vevo to artists with over 100 million views on Vevo and its partners (including YouTube) through special features on the Vevo website.
As of 2024, Chris Brown holds the record for the most Vevo certifications (38) among male R&B artists in the world, Brown is tied with Rihanna in the seventh-place.
His music videos serve as immersive experiences that complement and enhance the auditory journey, each frame a masterpiece meticulously crafted to captivate and inspire.
Brown was ranked fourth among the top 10 highest-performing U.S. artists on Vevo of the 2010s decade, behind Taylor Swift, Eminem, and Justin Bieber.
4. Impact on a global scale
Chris Brown’s international appeal underscores his status as a global phenomenon, whose reach extends far beyond the confines of the U.S.
Brown’s artistry, musical style, fashion has been widely lauded as an inspiration to fans around the world.
Brown’s outfits in music videos like “Loyal” and “Don’t Judge Me”, brought back the frenzy for Timbaland boots, and fans also started to recreate the look in the music video for the former, opting for Leather biker jackets and extra large White tees with Lumberjack shirts.
Beyond music, Brown’s physical appearance all through the years has become a reference point for fans, from his creative haircuts to his tattoos, the Virginia-born great was, and is still, as influential as ever.
His influence on pop culture is undeniable, shaping fashion trends and dance styles for a generation of fans.
5. Enduring Impact on future generations
As the torchbearer of a genre, Brown's legacy will continue to shine brightly for years to come, ensuring that his reign as the undisputed King of R&B remains unchallenged.
Brown has often been cited as an inspiration to other superstar artistes including: Jason Derulo, Justin Bieber, Jacquees, Jacob Latimore, Bryson Tiller, Kirko Bangz, Shameik Moore, as well as African artistes such as Tekno, Tay Iwar and Tellaman, and UK superstars like Zayn Malik and Ella Mai.
Brown has a natural gift of giving several other artistes hits for years.
Just ask Tinashe, Rvssian, Davido, Lojay, Pia Mia, Kid Ink, DaniLeigh, Jordin Sparks, Benny Benassi, H.E.R, Chlöe, Young Thug, Deorro, Skylar Blett, amongst several others.
6. Unmatched Vocal Range
Chris Brown unquestionably has one of the most distinctive and well-known voices in R&B history.
Brown's voice effortlessly spans octaves, captivating listeners with depth and emotion.
Often described as a dynamic vocalist, his vocal performances are characterized by harmonization, vocal runs and melisma.
Brown’s falsetto is also a reminder that his sublime voice is always beautiful to listen.
His vocal prowess has the power to grant a ‘feeling of ascension’ underscoring his remarkable ability to give top-notch vocal performances in R&B, Europop, rap, rock and even acoustic records.
7. He has succeeded Michael Jackson as the greatest performer in R&B
Chris Brown’s electrifying dance moves draw comparisons to legends like Michael Jackson, showcasing his prowess as a performer.
Cited as the reincarnation of MJ, Brown was handed the keys to the kingdom by the King of Pop himself, on his 18th birthday.
Chris cited the experience, as ‘the most humbling for him.’
In 2010, Brown was selected to honour Michael Jackson with a breathtaking performance at the 2010 BET Awards on June 27, having previously paid tribute to Jackson during his sold-out ‘Fan Appreciated Tour‘.
8. He is the most talented artiste in the history of R&B
Beyond singing, Brown possesses exceptional skills as a songwriter, rapper, producer, actor, dancer, video director, basketballer, and artist.
It is safe to say, that he is the most talented living artiste in R&B/Pop.
Brown is so great, that several of his unreleased songs and projects boast a better discography than the works of some accomplished R&B artistes we know today.
9. He is the most versatile artiste of his generation
As far as the R&B genre is concerned, there is really no other artiste who can comfortably glide through sounds without breaking a sweat.
A prolific singer and even phenomenal dancer, Chris Brown is well-rounded in music generally and cross-breeds genres in ways no other artiste can.
Brown has conquered several popular genres across the globe, including Dancehall, Raggae, Raggaeton, Pop, EDM, Afrobeats, Amapiano, amongst others.
10. His groundbreaking collaborations helped shape the sound of modern R&B
Whether you like it or not, Chris Brown’s collaborations with industry heavyweights have produced unforgettable hits that have shaped the R&B landscape.
Some of these include: “No Guidance” with Canadian megastar rapper Drake, “Loyal” with Lil Wayne and Tyga, “Go Crazy” with Young Thug, amongst a slew of other hits.
11. Philanthropy on a remarkable scale
Brown's charity work showcases his generosity and commitment to giving back to communities in need.
Just because the press unfortunately basks in the negative highlights of Breezy’s career, does not mean he isn’t one of the most empathetic and generous individuals walking the face of this earth.
Chris Brown’s Symphonic Love Foundation always goes above and beyond when it comes to supporting those in need.
In the past, he has organized celebrity sporting events that drew a lot of attention to good causes, one of his biggest partners being AIDS Project Los Angeles.
Instead of the classic kickball, basketball or golf tournament, Brown took on the AIDS Walk Los Angeles in fall of 2013.
After appealing to his friends and fans on Twitter to join his team, Brown teamed up with a slew of famous faces and good samaritans to raise both money and awareness for the illness.
Brown has given back severally to the same world that so often labels him a villain.
Chris Brown doesn’t take care of the children, and while he doesn’t strive to serve as a role model in every way, he does his best to ensure that the young ones understand the importance of giving back themselves when they’re able to.
Back in the Summer of 2013, Brown teamed up with Reebok, his own Unity Campaign, and his fans (Team Breezy) to donate 1,000 pairs of shoes to the “WE US: Walk Everywhere in Unity’s Shoes” event.”
In 2006, Brown donated more than $50,000 in proceeds from his Up Close and Personal Tour to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.
The following year, he returned to support their Math-A-Thon, which focused on helping children with cancer and other serious medical complications.
A few years back in Los Angeles, Chris Brown crashed his expensive Porsche while trying to escape the Paparazzi frenzy.
That same day, Breezy still turned up to watch 11 students audition for 5 highly coveted scholarships from his very own Symphonic Love Foundation.
However, feeling moved by the students’ passion, he spontaneously awarded all 11 finalists with scholarships that covered the cost of after-school and weekend training, audition fees entry, and a spot in the annual concert.
In a hectic 2015 for Brown, after the news of his first child broke the internet, he named his album after his daughter, “Royalty”.
In appreciation for Team Breezy for supporting him by purchasing the record, he vowed to donate $1 from every Royalty album sold to the Children’s Miracle Network Hospital.
But Chris Brown didn’t stop there, he has been actively donating and giving back to the community without making donations and deeds public.
12. Setting the standard for Live Performances
Chris Brown has a natural gift of shutting down live shows and leaving audiences in awe, with his raw energy, emotional depth, and jaw-dropping theatrics.
There is no living R&B artiste that has been able to kill stage performances on the level of Chris Brown, as far as the 21st century is concerned.
A god in his own right, the great one has since attained ‘GOAT’ status having surpassed the level of “legend” to become a full transient being in the R&B universe - a level mere humans like us may never fully understand, perhaps until when he decides to call time on his career.
13. He is one of the most awarded male R&B artistes of all time
With multiple Grammy Awards and Billboard Music Awards to his name, Brown's talent has been celebrated by industry peers and critics alike.
Aside from Usher (354), no other male R&B singer has won more collective awards than Chris Brown.
As of 2024, the great one has won over 200 awards having earned over a staggering 500 nominations throughout his career that has spanned over two decades.
Between the time Chris Brown released his debut album in 2005 and to date, no other singer has won more awards than the Virginia-born star.
Some notable awards won by Chris Brown include a Grammy Award, 19 BET Awards (all-time most wins for a male singer & second all-time overall behind Beyoncé), 5 American Music Awards, a World Music Award, 14 Soul Train Awards (tied with Bruno Mars for the most awarded male & second all-time behind Beyoncé), 4 Billboard Music Awards, 7 NAACP Image Awards, amongst several others.
14. Industry Influence and nurturing the next generation of talent
As a mentor and collaborator, Brown has nurtured the talents of emerging artists, leaving an indelible mark on the next generation of R&B performers.
Over the years, several artistes have admitted to receiving support and guidance from the great one himself.
From African acts like Rema, Tyla, Ayra Starr, Lojay, Libianca, Lloyiso, to international acts like Ella Mai, Normani, Pia Mia, Bryson Tiller, Tory Lanez, Baby B, Skylar Blatt, amongst others.
Part of why this has been possible is because of Brown’s accessibility even as a global superstar, and his open-minded approach to helping younger artistes reach their full potential.
15. His Evolution as an artist is second to none
Chris Brown’s artistic evolution has been marked by growth and experimentation, keeping his music fresh and relevant.
Unlike most of his peers, Brown focused heavily on improving every aspect of his artistry, sharpening his skills to become a master of his teachers.
As mentioned earlier, he is unarguably the most complete R&B singer of his generation.
16. Chris Brown pushed boundaries with top producers globally
Brown’s collaborations with top producers have resulted in cutting-edge soundscapes that push the boundaries of traditional R&B music.
As of 2024, Brown has collaborated with nearly every A-list producer in R&B, Hip Hop, Pop, EDM, Afrobeats, Raggaeton as well as a few others. The result? Smash hits upon smash hits.
17. A great singer? but even a better actor
Chris Brown’s acting career has showcased his versatility beyond music, earning critical acclaim and expanding his reach.
As of 2024, Brown has starred in 18 films and documentaries (including some where he played himself).
Having had the cinematic world in a chokehold with his appearance in Stomp the Yard (2007), Brown impressed in his role in the popular heist movie Takers (2010), before being cast in a lead role for Battle of the Year (2013).
Fans and moviegoers, on the other hand, have frequently been disappointed by Breezy's brief debut in feature films, or by failing to see the story all the way through.
Regardless, there is only a handful of male singers who can best Breezy’s acting prowess.
18. He has sold more records than the media “King of R&B
For a fact, Chris Brown has outsold every living R&B male singer walking the face of this earth at the time of this article.
With more than 140 million records sold worldwide, Chris Brown is one of the best selling music artistes of all time, outselling his predecessors like Usher (80 million).
Brown has sold more records than Jay Z (125 million), Justin Timberlake (88 million), Prince (100 million), The Weeknd(75 million), Stevie Wonder (100 million), R. Kelly (75 million), just to mention a few.
19. He shaped the trajectory of Choreography in R&B
One of the greatest entertainers of all time, Chris Brown is a huge influence in R&B culture - both videos and stage performances.
A prolific master and phenomenal dancer, Breezy’s dance routines are truly legendary.
The great one is still influencing a generation of dancers and setting the standard for “art of performance”.
20. His lyrical depth is a true spectacle
Chris Brown’s songwriting delves into themes of love, heartbreak, and personal growth, resonating with listeners on a deep and emotional level.
Even though his teamwork policy has seen him put songwriters on, Brown has written songs himself, and for some of the biggest global hitmakers we know today.
Brown has written songs for Rihanna, Jlo, Mary J. Blidge, Lonny Bereal, Joe Jonas, amongst several others.
21. Chris Brown’s comeback resilience despite being blackballed cannot be replicated in this lifetime
Despite facing personal and professional challenges, Brown's resilience has allowed him to overcome adversity and continue his musical legacy.
Many have suggested that it is a rare “miracle” how Brown remains relevant in pop culture, despite being blackballed by the same industry that shows leniency with artistes who have done much worse in their lifetime.
Brown’s ability to thrive amid chaos and consistently deliver chart-topping hits despite numerous snubs over his past, solidifies his position as a divine great.
It is highly unlikely any other artiste will be able to survive the same harsh fate he has had to endure over his past.
22. He is the most experimental male R&B singer
The saying that Chris Brown has yet to do it all is only a farce.
For a fact, whatever spectrum that R&B has evolved into over the years, the great one has already done it.
Be it alternative, dark, contemporary, soul, Neo soul, indie, funk, progressive soul, amongst others, Brown has done it all.
His willingness to push boundaries beyond his primary strengths has led to experimental projects that challenge conventional notions of R&B music.
Brown’s fusion of R&B with Afrobeats is considered one of the best iterations of R&B in modern culture.
At a point, it becomes difficult to categorize Brown under a single genre.
23. Chris Brown is the male R&B singer with the most listeners on Spotify
As of May 2024, Chris Brown is the male R&B artist with the most monthly listeners on Spotify (51 million +), placing him in the list of the top artistes with the most monthly listeners on the streaming service.
However, Canadian singer The Weeknd, is still the male artist with the most monthly listeners overall.
24. Chris Brown’s fan base is the most resilient fan base in R&B
The unwavering support of “Team Breezy” is a testament to Brown's enduring appeal and connection with his audience.
Time and again, Brown’s cult following shows up for him even in his lowest.
The intriguing aspect about Team Breezy is their refusal to give up on him in spite of his past.
Brown’s fan base has grown arguably the “thickest” skin in the game.
Wherever, whenever…pick a time and a place. Whichever decade, lifetime or even century, Chris Brown has an army that will go to the deepest lengths to push his music, debunk misinformation, separate facts from figures, and highlight false allegations as allegations.
Humbled by their loyalty, the great one has always paid his respects to his dedicated fanbase.
There might be Swifties, Beyhives, Beliebers, Ariantors, Barbz, and hell…the BTS Army.
But Team Breezy reigns supreme just by refusing to jump ship in the face of adversity and following through until the very end.
It’s literally Team Breezy vs the world on one too many occasions.
25. Documentary Legacy
Just like his idol, Michael Jackson, Chris Brown’s life and career has been documented in films and documentaries, providing insight into his journey as an artist and a man.
Not every artiste can produce one worth watching, because without core highlights, there’s no story.
Brown had and still has more than enough to share with the world.
26. He has addressed social issues through his music
As part of his commitment to raising awareness for social causes, Chris Brown continues to use his platform to address social issues such as racial injustice and police brutality, advocating for change through his music.
Still scratching your head: Listen to “Don’t Think They Know” by Chris Brown ft. Aaliyah.
R.I.P Aaliyah
27. He is the best rapper in the history of male R&B singers
Enough said! There is no R&B singer dead or alive that can outrap Chris Brown.
It is essential to recognize Brown's impact and talent within the realm of Hip Hop.
While Brown is undeniably a multi-talented artist known for his vocal prowess, dance abilities, and chart-topping hits, his versatility cannot be overlooked.
Brown's ability to seamlessly blend elements of rap into his music showcases his adaptability and creativity.
His flow, when he does rap, is smooth and charismatic, adding a unique dynamic to his artistry, making a fool out of actual rappers who are supposedly “well versed’ in their realm. I ain’t saying no names
Moreover, his collaborations with renowned rappers further demonstrate his credibility and influence within the hip-hop community, delivering timeless hooks and choruses tailormade for the history books.
28. He is the most influential R&B male artiste in the world
With a massive following on social media platforms, Brown's influence extends beyond music, connecting with fans worldwide.
As of 2024, Brown has more than 145 million followers on Instagram, making him the most-followed male R&B singer in the world (more than The Weeknd, and more than four times the following of Usher).
Overall, he is the second most-followed singer on the platform, after Justin Bieber (293M followers).
29. Chris Brown is the only R&B male singer to have won a Headies Award
The Headies Award is the literally the ‘Grammys’ of Afrobeats (the biggest genre in African music).
Chris Brown is the first American artist and the only R&B artist to ever win a Headies award for outstanding achievements in the Nigerian music industry.
Brown won his Headies in the category of international artiste of the year, which was created to recognize non-African artists or groups with outstanding achievements and impact on Afrobeats.
Brown’s willingness to collaborate with the biggest stars in Afrobeats has led to groundbreaking musical fusions and cross-genre experimentation.
30. His maintained relevance in pop culture
Brown remains relevant in popular culture, with viral moments and memes further solidifying his status as a cultural icon.
31. No other male singer has more Billboard R&B hits than Chris Brown
Brown's consistent presence on the Billboard charts demonstrates his enduring popularity and relevance in the music industry.
As of 2024, Brown is the singer with the most appearances on the Billboard 200 list.
In 2022, he officially surpassed The Weeknd’s record for most Hot R&B tracks.
Additionally, Brown surpassed Elvis Presley‘s record for most Billboard Hot 100 songs, becoming the most decorated male artist in that category.
32. He is the first artiste in the 21st century to chart on the Billboard Hot 100 for 20 years
Yes! Read it again. This time, slowly.
Chris Brown just keeps defying the odds despite being blackballed by the so-called gatekeepers of the industry.
The great one cemented his place as a chart-topping icon by being the first artist in the 21st century to have a song chart on the Billboard Hot 100 for a record-breaking 20 years.
In January this year, it was announced that not one but two songs out of his amazing catalog: ‘Sensational,’ the second single from his album ’11:11,’ and ‘IDGAF,’ a collaboration with Tee Grizzley and Mariah the Scientist, made him make history on the Billboard charts.
In essence, he’s HIM!
33. He surpassed Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder to become the most Billboard 200 top 10 hits by a Black solo male vocalist
Chris Brown broke all sorts of records on Billboard with the release of 11:11.
In addition to being the first artist in the 21st century to have a song chart on the Billboard Hot 100 for a record-breaking 20 years, Brown did not only tie R. Kelly for the most Billboard 200 top 10 hits by a Black solo male vocalist this century but also advanced on the chart’s all-time count among all male singers - surpassing even his idols Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder.
Simply put, I’ve already run out of words to describe this man.
34. Chris Brown is the male R&B singer with the most Soul Train Awards and most BET Awards
As of May 2024, Chris Brown is the most decorated male artiste in the history of BET and Soul Train Awards.
As mentioned earlier, Breezy has won 19 BET Awards (all-time most wins for a male singer) - only Beyoncé has won more.
The great one has also cleared 14 Soul Train Awards (tied with Bruno Mars for the most awarded male) - again, only Beyoncé has won more.
For a fact, Chris Brown could have easily won more than 300 career total awards had he not been blackballed by the industry and resented over his past.
In terms of pure musical abilities as an overall performer, only the “King of Pop” Michael Jackson, is worthy of besting his incredible feats on stage.
35. R. Kelly himself already crowned him the “King of R&B”
To end all debates about the King of R&B, R. Kelly who had worn the crown undisputed for years, has already crowned Chris Brown as his successor.
In a 2012 interview recorded by Paperchaserdot.com, the "Pied Piper of R&B" was quoted to have said when asked who the next King of R&B was:
"I know Trey Songz is a guy that if he keeps with the hits and he humble himself a little bit more he will definitely be one of the runner ups. Chris Brown is already there (then no.1) as far as I’m concerned because he’s a humble guy. Chris Brown use to come to my studio when he was 13, 14, 15, and 16… I use to lecture him all the time with DJ Wayne Williams. I tell you one thing, I have the most upmost respect for Chris Brown. My hat goes off to him. Because why? He got into the studio, he did what he was supposed to do and he bounced back like round ball."
Above all, Chris Brown's undeniable talent, passion, and dedication coupled with his prolific, creative, explosive, electric and phenomenal artistry to his craft have earned him the title of the undisputed “King of R&B” as far as this generation is concerned.
Unlike most of his peers, Chris Brown did not get any handouts, nor did he have to ‘sell-out’ or compromise his core beliefs to please the so-called industry gatekeepers.
Brown walked the walk and talked the talk with his music.
Individually, no other R&B performer is more skilled, hardworking, and innovative than the great one, a legacy that will endure for generations to come.
There are already great concerns that Brown’s eventual retirement will leave a huge gap in the relevance of the R&B genre — which is why we must not wait until he is gone before he receives his complete and due credits on the grandest of stages, but rather appreciate the fact that there will never be another version of him, in this life, nor the next. EVER!
On this blessed day of Chris Brown, here is to 35 years of substantial greatness, iconic moments and endless inspiration. Long Live THE KING!!
Wow!