American R&B superstar Chris Brown has issued a passionate message to fans and music critics, urging them to stop comparing him to other artists.
In a recent Instagram story post, the award-winning singer expressed frustration over constant comparisons, stating that no one else in the industry has endured what he has while maintaining such longevity and self-reliance.
‘Do it all by yourself first’ – Chris Brown
Brown, known for hit songs like Under The Influence, No Guidance, and Loyal, made it clear that he believes his journey in music is different from most.
“I wish y’all would stop comparing me to other artists and saying ‘me versus someone else,’” Brown wrote. “Until one of these artists does all this sh*t by themselves with no help and while the media constantly f**ks with them, then come holla at me.”
The post, laced with emotion and expletives, reflected the singer’s apparent frustration with being constantly placed side-by-side with other names in the industry.
20 years of consistency
The 35-year-old singer also reminded fans that he has been in the music business for two decades and is still going strong. He emphasised that he’s not in it just for fame or competition, but to make a living.
“I do this for my survival. I’ve been consistent for 20 years straight,” Brown said. “Everything I’ve built, I had to fight for. Nothing was handed to me.”
The Virginia-born artist’s career started in 2005 when he released his debut self-titled album at just 16 years old. The album featured chart-topping singles like Run It! and helped launch him into instant stardom.
Comparisons to music icons
Over the years, Chris Brown has often been compared to legendary performers like Michael Jackson and Usher. Fans frequently debate who is the better singer, dancer, or overall performer. While many admire his vocal range and dynamic stage presence, some critics argue that such comparisons are premature or inappropriate.
The debate surrounding Brown and Michael Jackson, in particular, has remained popular across social media platforms. Supporters of Brown point to his dancing, choreography, and music catalogue as evidence, while critics highlight Jackson’s unmatched global influence and pioneering legacy.
Aside from those two, Brown’s name has also been linked in comparison with artists like T-Pain, Trey Songz, Mario, Akon, and Nelly, many of whom rose to fame during the same era and within the same genre.
A career shaped by highs and lows
Brown’s career has been both successful and controversial. Despite delivering countless hits and sold-out concerts around the world, he has faced legal battles and negative media coverage, especially after his 2009 assault case involving fellow singer Rihanna.
Still, he has managed to retain a loyal fanbase and consistently stay relevant in the ever-changing music industry. His ability to evolve with the times while maintaining a unique sound has earned him recognition as one of the most influential R&B artists of his generation.
A message to critics and fans alike
In his post, Brown did not mention any artist by name. However, he wanted to set the record straight. For him, his journey cannot be fairly compared to anyone else’s unless they’ve walked the same path, one marked by personal battles, independence, and an often hostile media environment.
With this message, Brown is not just defending his legacy but also calling for a deeper appreciation of what it takes to survive and succeed in the music industry for two decades without major institutional support.
As fans continue to debate and draw comparisons, Brown’s message is simple: respect the journey, acknowledge the struggle, and recognise the uniqueness of every artist’s path.
Read Also: ‘Iya Drizzy’, Korra Obidi teases possible fling with Drake’s father
