From Billboard · Alicia Urrea · · 1m 20s
Chris Brown thanks Jasmine Crockett after honor backlash
A ceremonial concert honor for Chris Brown and Usher set off criticism, prompting Brown and Texas lawmakers to respond.
In brief
A ceremonial concert honor for Chris Brown and Usher set off criticism, prompting Brown and Texas lawmakers to respond. The honor was symbolic, but Brown’s legal history made the public reaction much bigger than the onstage moment. Originally reported by Billboard.
Brown responds
Chris Brown thanked U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett after she faced criticism for honoring him during his tour stop with Usher in Arlington, Texas.
“Thank you so much”
A concert honor
Crockett appeared onstage at AT&T Stadium on Sept. 12 and said Brown and Usher were being recognized in the Congressional Record for their music careers.
Black joy, documented
Crockett framed the presentation as a formal celebration of Black music and culture. The entry praised Brown and Usher’s impact on R&B and pop music.
“Black joy”
Backlash follows Brown
Critics objected because Brown pleaded guilty to felony assault of Rihanna in 2009 and has faced other legal issues, including a recent U.K. nightclub case.
Supporters split the issue
Some defended the recognition as a way to honor Brown’s musical work while separating it from his legal past. Texas Rep. Venton Jones also addressed the criticism.
Jones apologizes
Jones apologized to domestic violence survivors on The Don Lemon Show and said the lawmakers had been invited as part of a voter mobilization effort.
“means so much”
The main idea
The honor was symbolic, but Brown’s legal history made the public reaction much bigger than the onstage moment.
