Chris Brown’s 11:11 (Deluxe) was awarded Best R&B Album at the 67th Grammy Awards on February 2, 2025, but the decision has ignited a firestorm of criticism online. While some praised the artist for his musical achievements, others condemned the Recording Academy's choice due to Brown's controversial past.
‘11:11 (Deluxe)’ by Chris Brown wins the #GRAMMYs award for Best R&B Album. pic.twitter.com/SZPZQt3cfI
— Pop Base (@PopBase) February 2, 2025
The announcement, initially shared by @PopBase on X (formerly Twitter), quickly went viral, amassing over 2 million views and drawing intense reactions. Many users voiced their displeasure, with one commenting, “Oh, so we’re awarding serial abusers now? Muni Long and Usher were robbed!” Another noted, “This just shows you can get away with everything as long as you’re a man.”
In contrast, Brown's supporters celebrated the win, with fans declaring him the “KING OF R&B” and defending his right to be recognized for his musical talent. "Majority of you in the comments complaining, meanwhile streaming the album yourself," remarked one supporter, highlighting the division in public opinion.
Brown’s legal troubles, including the highly publicized 2009 assault case involving Rihanna and a series of more recent allegations, were frequently referenced by critics. In July 2024, Brown faced a $50 million lawsuit over alleged backstage assaults during his 11:11 tour, and another serious allegation surfaced later that year. These incidents have raised questions about the ethics of honoring artists with such histories.
11:11 (Deluxe) won against albums by Muni Long, Usher, Lalah Hathaway, and Lucky Daye, leading some to question whether Brown’s past influenced the perception of his artistic merit. The controversy has reignited debates about accountability in the music industry and whether personal conduct should affect professional accolades.
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