Rapper Fat Joe Claims Chris Brown Could Have Matched Michael Jackson’s Stardom If Not for Rihanna Incident.
Fat Joe, an American rapper, has asserted that Chris Brown could have achieved the same level of fame as Michael Jackson if not for his 2009 assault on then-girlfriend Rihanna.
The 53-year-old rapper claims that the incident significantly tarnished Brown’s reputation, overshadowing his musical talents. This altercation took place on February 8, 2009, in Los Angeles’ Hancock Park neighborhood after a pre-Grammys party.
In an Instagram Live session, Fat Joe expressed his belief, stating, “If Chris Brown hadn’t been involved in the controversy with Rihanna, we would be calling him Michael Jackson right now. Not similar to Michael Jackson — Michael Jackson.”
Fat Joe, hailing from New York City, praised Chris Brown, calling him “the most talented singer, artist, performer, and hitmaker of our time.”
He further commented, “No one even comes close to Chris Brown, and it’s time we move past it. It’s been over two decades without further incidents. Are we going to let this lifetime pass without acknowledging the truth?”
Fat Joe emphasized that the truth can be an unpopular stance, leading to fear of cancellation, especially among celebrities. “But the streets know the reality. They always tell the truth,” he added.
He also referenced the continued popularity of R. Kelly’s music despite his conviction as a sex offender, stating, “The streets are still playing R. Kelly. He’s in jail and did terrible things.”
Fat Joe believes it’s time to recognize Brown’s artistic achievements regardless of his past actions. “It’s a shame we’re lying and not giving credit to the king of R&B,” he said.
He suggested that Brown’s body of work and numerous hits position him to be compared with Michael Jackson. “We think he could compete with Michael Jackson, that’s all I’m saying — if you really look at his work,” he noted.
Fat Joe clarified that he does not condone Brown’s actions in 2009 but pointed out that Brown was only 19 years old when the incident occurred.