US singer Chris Brown launched his UK tour in Manchester on Sunday, just days ahead of a scheduled court appearance in London related to a 2023 assault allegation.
The Grammy-winning artist performed to a packed crowd at Manchester’s Co-op Live arena, kicking off his Breezy Bowl XX tour, which celebrates his 20-year music career. The show featured a high-energy setlist, including fan favorites like Run It, Turn Up The Music, With You, and Freaky Friday. A video montage during the show highlighted both career milestones and past controversies, including footage of his recent court arrest—greeted by cheers from supportive fans.
Brown, 36, is out on £5 million bail after being arrested in Salford last month upon re-entering the UK. He faces a charge of grievous bodily harm, accused of attacking a music producer with a tequila bottle during his previous UK tour. He has not yet entered a plea.
In a light moment during the concert, Brown thanked fans for their support and jokingly remarked, “Thank you to the jail. It was really nice.”
The court granted permission for Brown to continue his tour as part of his bail terms. He has since performed in Amsterdam and is scheduled to appear next in Cardiff on Thursday before his court date in London on Friday. He will stand alongside co-defendant Omololu Akinlolu, known professionally as HoodyBaby.
Following the hearing, Brown is expected to continue his tour with performances in London, Birmingham, Glasgow, and additional shows in Manchester.
The artist was recently awarded Best Male R&B/Pop Artist at the BET Awards in Los Angeles.
