Jill Scott, the soulful powerhouse and Grammy-winning singer-songwriter, is currently in the spotlight as she promotes her upcoming album, “To Whom This May Concern,” set to drop on February 13. Amidst her press tour, Scott made a bold statement that has sparked a lively debate among her fans and music lovers alike: she declared Chris Brown to be the King of Pop, a title most commonly associated with the late Michael Jackson.
The singer’s remarks came during an interview with UK content creator cleanheartedkidd. When asked about her choice, she simply shrugged and affirmed her position. “Chris Brown,” she said, a statement that ignited a firestorm online. Fans quickly took to social media to defend Michael Jackson’s legacy, questioning why Scott would elevate Brown, a figure frequently embroiled in controversy, to such prestigious heights.
@cleanheartedkidd Jill Scott said Chris Brown is the king of pop😎 #jillscott #music #artist #interview ♬ original sound – PETERORPEDROWEOYR
In response to the backlash, Scott took to X (formerly Twitter) to clarify her remarks. She explained that the title of “King of Pop” is arbitrary and that, caught in a moment of jet lag and fatigue, she may not have communicated her true feelings. She stated that if given the chance again, she would declare Prince as the King of Pop due to his profound impact and legacy in music. “He is EVERYTHING—Dancer, opulent musician, visionary, divine songwriter, showman,” she emphasized, making it clear that her admiration for Prince’s artsmanship remains unparalleled.
As she readies herself for the release of her album, Scott’s artistic vision is more visible than ever. “To Whom This May Concern” features an eclectic mix of collaborators, including talented artists like Ab-Soul, J.I.D., Tierra Whack, and Too $hort, alongside production from industry powerhouses such as Adam Blackstone and DJ Premier. This lineup promises to deliver a rich tapestry of sounds, blending genres and styles to create something truly special.
Jill Scott has never shied away from expressing her views and experiences through her music and public persona. As she gears up for this new musical chapter, fans are eager to see how her reflections on artistry and identity will manifest in her latest work.