Chris Brown’s AMA Victory Incites Boos

A day after saying his planned Michael Jackson homage at the show was cancelled last minute, Chris Brown was booed as he got an award at the 2022 American Music Awards while he was not present. Kelly Rowland, 41, accepted the prize in the singer’s place as the Favorite Male R&B Artist winner.

A chorus of boos erupted as Kelly revealed Chris as the recipient, and the Destiny’s Child member urged the crowd to “chill out” as she praised him for his musical achievements.

She said: “Now Chris Brown is not here tonight so I’m accepting this award on his behalf. Excuse me… chill out.”

“But I wanted to tell Chris, thank you so much for making great R&B music and I want to tell him thank you for being an incredible performer,” she continued. “I’ll take this award — bring it to you. I love you. Congratulations. And congratulations to all the nominees in this category.”

#AMAs I know that's right!! Tell em Kellendria!!! #ChrisBrown#KellyRowlandpic.twitter.com/mG0XFdxvsI

— whataboutpromblane (@whataboutpromb1) November 21, 2022

Days prior, Chris allegedly stated that a Michael Jackson tribute he was scheduled to give at the AMAs had been abruptly cancelled. The musician claimed that he received no explanation for the choice. He opened his Instagram and uploaded a lengthy segment of rehearsal video where he was seen imitating some distinctly Michael Jackson-like gestures.

In the video he released, female backup dancers could be seen circling him as they performed a challenging choreography. They were singing Michael Jackson songs including Beat It, Billie Jean, Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’, and Thriller as part of an upbeat medley.