Chris Brown, hero or zero?

Chris Brown flying in at FNB stadium

In the small town of Tappahannock Virginia Christopher Maurice Brown was just born. And now, 35 years later, he is a well-known R&B star, better known as Chris Brown.

By the age of 15 he signed with Jive Records and released his debut album in 2005. He quickly rose to fame but was met with immense backlash in 2009. He was convicted of assaulting his then-girlfriend, Rihanna.

This resulted in him receiving community service and probation. He served his sentence and continued to make a name for himself.

And for the first time in nearly a decade, he has returned to South Africa. However, his arrival has been met with mixed emotions.

Women For Change, a non-profit organization submitted a petition on the 25th of November. The first day of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children. The petition which was submitted to home affairs and the department of sports and culture, as well as Big Concerts, showcases Brown’s history of violence. It has garnered over 50 000 signatures.
But it still was not enough to stop the concert from taking place.

Performing for only two days, the 14th and 15th of December at the FNB Stadium, Chris Brown is received with mixed feelings. Over the years he has gathered a loyal following, with 144 million followers on Instagram.

WATCH CHRIS BROWN PERFORMING LIVE AT FNB STADIUM

And while some are of opinion that it is your choice to enjoy his concert and music, they do feel it is unfair to support someone who is abusive and violent.
Sabrina Walter, director of WFC told City Press that they have no intention of staging a protest. This decision comes after the organization have received various rape and death threats against their campaign.
“We have deliberately chosen not to organize protests against this event, prioritizing the safety of our community. Given the rape and death threats we’ve received in response to our campaign, it’s clear that many of Brown’s fans pose a potential risk. We refuse to expose our sisters to further harassment or violence by engaging in direct confrontation.”

Despite the controversy, he still put on a spectacular show, as can be seen on social media. With 94, 736 South Africans filling the FNB-stadium, it is clear that his history of abuse was not nearly enough for his fans to turn their back on him.