R. Kelly Says He Doesn’t ‘Deserve’ Prison On Surprise Remix Of Chris Brown’s ‘Residuals’
Despite being behind bars, R. Kelly has unexpectedly participated in the viral “Residuals” challenge, adding his own verse to Chris Brown’s 2023 track.
The challenge, initiated by R&B singer Tank, has seen various artists – including Mario, Jacob Latimore, and Boyz II Men’s Shawn Stockman – deliver their own spin on the song. However, Kelly’s involvement, recorded via a prison phone call, has taken many by surprise.
Kelly’s Verse: A Plea from Prison
The audio, shared online by his longtime collaborator Rodney East, features the disgraced singer expressing frustration over his incarceration and financial disputes.
“They’re still selling my music, making all this money / Don’t even send s*** to my folks for commissary / Though I’m in this place, I know I don’t deserve this,” he sings.
Kelly also questions the whereabouts of his earnings, adding:
“Tell me who, who’s getting all my checks? / Where is my money at? / Tell me who, who’s getting paid for my grind? / All of that’s supposed to be mine.”
In his Instagram post, East confirmed the authenticity of the recording, writing: “Big Bro Decided 2 Pull up On The Challenge. No AI, The Real Deal… Voice Is Definitely Missed Out Here.”
Kelly’s remix was well-received by some in the industry, with artists like SWV’s LeLee Lyons, Jozzy, L.T. Hutton, and Tyrese showing support. Tyrese commented: “How many times can I hit this KING BUTTON [crown and fire emojis]?”
Kelly Claims to Have Written 25 Albums in Prison
In a recent interview on the Inmate Tea with A&P podcast, the embattled singer revealed he has been actively writing music while incarcerated.
“I’m always singing, I’m always writing,” he said. “I’ve written like 25 albums since I’ve been in here.”
Despite multiple failed appeals, Kelly insisted that his legal battle is far from over. “I’m working on getting out,” he stated. “I’m using patience as a tactic.”
His attorney, Jean Bonjean, echoed his sentiment, telling TMZ: “Our appeals process has not come to an end. We will continue to fight for justice and for his freedom.”
According to Bureau of Prisons records, R. Kelly is scheduled for release on December 21, 2045, at which point he will be 78 years old.
Listen below.
