Your cart is currently empty!
American R&B singer Chris Brown has officially launched his UK tour in Manchester, just days ahead of a scheduled court appearance in London. The 36-year-old Grammy Award-winning performer entertained thousands of fans at the Co-op Live Arena on Sunday night, marking the beginning of his highly anticipated “Breezy Bowl XX” tour, which celebrates his 20-year milestone in the music industry.
Brown’s arrival on stage was met with thunderous cheers from a sold-out crowd. The artist kicked off the performance with Run It, the 2005 hit that introduced him to the global music scene at just 16 years old. His set included a series of fan-favorite tracks spanning his two-decade career, including Turn Up The Music, With You, Freaky Friday, and Don’t Wake Me Up. With 19 UK top 10 singles to his name, the singer gave his fans a nostalgic and high-energy show, blending dynamic visuals with slick choreography.
However, the opening night of the tour came amid legal turbulence for Chris Brown. He is currently facing a charge of grievous bodily harm related to an alleged nightclub assault in London during his 2023 UK tour. The incident reportedly involved an “unprovoked attack” on a music producer using a tequila bottle. Brown, who has not yet entered a plea, is expected to appear in a London court this coming Friday alongside his co-defendant, 38-year-old rapper Omololu Akinlolu, better known by his stage name HoodyBaby.
Chris Brown Opens UK Tour in Manchester Amid Ongoing Court Case
Brown was arrested in May upon his return to the UK. Detectives from London’s Metropolitan Police reportedly apprehended him at a hotel in Salford, Greater Manchester. He spent nearly a week in custody before being released after agreeing to pay a substantial £5 million security fee — a financial guarantee that he will comply with bail conditions and return for court proceedings. Should he fail to meet these conditions, the amount could be forfeited.
Despite the legal cloud hanging over him, Chris Brown took a lighthearted approach to the situation during his Manchester performance. Addressing the audience mid-show, he expressed gratitude for their unwavering support. “Thank you for coming and supporting me,” he said, before adding with a grin, “And thank you to the jail — it was really nice,” prompting laughter and applause from the crowd.
A video montage showcased the singer’s personal and professional journey, featuring highlights from his music career as well as clips from news reports outside the Manchester courthouse following his arrest. The footage drew cheers from the audience, a testament to the fierce loyalty of his fanbase.
As part of the bail agreement, the court granted Chris Brown permission to continue with his European tour. He had already performed a show in Amsterdam prior to the Manchester dates. Following the second night in Manchester on Monday, Brown is scheduled to perform at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium on Thursday, before appearing in court the next day.
Despite the looming legal battle, Chris Brown’s career remains in full swing. Just last week, he took home the award for Best Male R&B/Pop Artist at the BET Awards in Los Angeles, further cementing his place as a mainstay in contemporary music.
After Friday’s court appearance, Chris Brown is set to take the stage at London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday and Sunday, followed by additional performances in Birmingham and Glasgow. The tour will conclude with two final shows back in Manchester.
While his tour has been met with enthusiasm by fans, it also sparks continued debate about celebrity accountability. Critics argue that the legal charges should be taken more seriously, while supporters insist he deserves the chance to continue performing and defending himself in court.
As Brown navigates the twin demands of touring and legal proceedings, the spotlight will remain firmly fixed on both his performances and the developments in the courtroom. For now, the artist appears determined to press forward, performing for sold-out crowds across the UK, even as he prepares to face serious allegations.