Chris Brown cries…crocodile tears?

So I woke up this morning and saw all this talk about Chris Brown on Mario’s AKA Perez Hilton’s website and on the Yahoo homepage. So I decided to have a look at the video posted of Mr. Brown’s performance at the BET Awards. My first thought was who did Chris Brown or his management team have to sleep with or pay off to get him to do this Michael Jackson Tribute.

It starts off with the now iconic silhouette of a figure on stage similar to that of Michael Jackson behind a screen. Then the screen falls away and then the crowd is somewhat apprehensive when they realise that it is Chris Brown on stage but applauds anyway. He does some MJ moves and sings briefly. Then they show some images of the Haiti quake and BP oil spill with the intro to “Man in the MIrror” playing.

Then Chris Brown attempts to sing with a shaky voice then is completely useless and begins to sob uncontrollably. Watch the Video below…

In my honest opinion this was a staged attempt at winning public support for Chris Brown after his career was ravaged by the Rihanna domestic violence scandal. This comes after Mr. Brown was denied entry into the UK earlier this month to tour the British Isles.

Not to negate from his talent but I don’t think Chris Brown ought to be put up on a pedestal honouring the greatest entertainer of our time the late Michael Jackson. I just think that this is a blatant endorsement of domestic violence. What kind of message is being sent to young men out there? It is okay to beat your wife or girlfriend because you will get a slap on the wrist because that is what community service really is.

Not to say Michael Jackson did not have his problems but since his death MJ has undergone apotheosis which in music industry terms makes Chris Brown like a ex-convict turned preacher.  A sinner born again through the power of God or in this case dancing like Michael Jackson and crying at all the money he lost.

It would seem that it does not matter what crime you committed, you can cry in public then everyone will like you again. 14 months ago Chris Brown, music’s golden boy was the most hated man in music. It is alarming how soon people forget. I know people can change and learn from their mistakes but I still feel there was no justice in the Rihanna case. Basically I think he should have gone to prison for a few months to think about what he did wrong, not pick up trash in a park.

We’ll just see how far Chris Brown’s people will take this redeemed man in repair thing.

Stuff I Like…Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe (1st December, 1985 – Present)

She is the ultimate artist totally immersed in her art from its inception. I fell in love with her work after Suite I of her Metropolis project came out in 2007 and was re-relased by Bad Boy Records in 2008. Janelle Monáe transcends genre as her unique mix of soul, hip hop, classical and pop creates an addictive confection for the ears.

I love the aesthetic and concept. Robots in the future controlled by humans as soulless mind controlled slaves. However, Cindy Mayweather, an android, falls in love with a human, Anthony. This is not allowed and she has to escape immediate disassembly. While on the run she discovers something about herself, not only does she have a soul, but she is ONE, The ArchAndroid. The one who will bring the truth that will break the  constraints of society and allow the mind controlled masses to be delivered to true enlightenment.

I know sounds a bit heavy but this is incredible musical artistry and Janelle’s voice is amazing!  The story telling and social commentary make this a powerful album.

Nominated for a Grammy for Best New Artist 2009 Monáe is poised to change the world of music with her passionate vocals and awe inspiring performances.

For your viewing pleasure here is “Tightrope” the lead single from Metropolis Suites II and II: The ArchAndroid. Buy the Album on iTunes now!