R. Kelly - Homie, Lover, Friend

Biography

Robert Kelly, better known as R. Kelly, is a Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and producer hailing from the South Side of Chicago, Illinois. Born into a musically inclined family, Kelly began performing as a teenager under the “L” subway tracks in Chicago. His talent and passion for music led him to release his first album, Born Into the 90’s, in 1992 as a collaboration with Public Announcement. The album showcased R. Kelly's songwriting and producing skills, featuring hits like “Honey Love” and “Slow Dance.”

In 1993, R. Kelly ventured into a solo career with the release of his album 12 Play, which included popular tracks like “Bump N' Grind” and “Your Body’s Callin'.” His self-titled album in 1995 and the double album R. in 1998 further solidified his success in the music industry, with hits like “Down Low (Nobody Has To Know)” and the Grammy Award-winning song “I Believe I Can Fly.”

Throughout the ‘90s and 2000s, R. Kelly continued to dominate the music scene, not only with his own hits like “Ignition” and “Step in the Name of Love” but also as a sought-after producer for artists like Aaliyah, Janet Jackson, and Michael Jackson. Collaborations with artists like Lady Gaga and Jay-Z further showcased his versatility and appeal.

Despite his undeniable talent and success, R. Kelly's career was marred by controversy and legal troubles. In September 2021, he was convicted by a federal court in New York City on nine counts of racketeering and child sex trafficking. The conviction marked a dark chapter in R. Kelly's legacy, overshadowing his contributions to the music industry.

While his legal troubles have tarnished his reputation, R. Kelly's impact on R&B music cannot be denied. With a career spanning over 25 years, he has left an indelible mark on the industry and remains a polarizing figure in the world of music.