Chris Brown is lresponding after Texas State Rep. Venton Jones apologized following backlash over the recognition Brown received during the Usher and Chris Brown concert at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
The September 12 concert, part of the artists’ joint R&B tour, featured an onstage appearance by Jones and U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett. The lawmakers participated in recognizing Brown and Usher for their contributions to music and entertainment. Crockett announced that the artists’ names and musical contributions would be documented in the Congressional Record, while Jones presented a Texas state recognition to Brown.
The recognition quickly generated criticism online because of Brown’s history, including his 2009 guilty plea to felony assault stemming from an incident involving Rihanna.
Following the backlash, Jones addressed the controversy during an appearance with Don Lemon.
Jones apologized specifically to Black women, women and people who have experienced domestic violence, saying it was not his intention to “stoke” or bring up the trauma associated with Brown’s history.
“I want to offer an apology,” Jones said during the interview. He acknowledged the concerns surrounding the recognition and said he understood why some people were hurt or offended by his participation.
Jones also explained that he and Crockett were involved in the event as part of efforts connected to the concert and voter engagement.
After Jones’ interview, Brown addressed the situation on social media, making it clear that he did not ask to be honored.
“Funny thing is… YALL CAME TO ME WITH THIS! NOT THE OTHER WAY AROUND,” Brown wrote.
“I was minding my d@% business. My shows in Dallas were already sold out. I ain’t ask to be honored because I knew some sh*t like this would happen,” he continued.
Brown also criticized Jones for apologizing following the backlash, accusing the state representative of “tap dancing” and suggesting that Jones was concerned about losing voters and support.
Brown concluded by asking Jones and others involved to leave him alone so that he could focus on the fans who purchased tickets to attend his performances.
Brown was not the only artist recognized during the Arlington concert. Usher also received recognition from Crockett as part of the celebration of the two artists’ musical careers.
Venton Jones, a Democrat, currently represents Texas House District 100. According to the Texas House of Representatives, Jones was elected in 2022 and is serving his second term in the chamber.
