Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian
On Saturday, the iconic FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa, was packed with over 90,000 fans as Chris Brown made his much-anticipated return for the first of two sold-out concerts. The landmark performance marked Breezy’s comeback to the city after years away, drawing an ecstatic crowd eager to experience his electrifying show.
Chris Brown going crazy and they trying ignore it… pic.twitter.com/b3Rh8CcW4C
— O.T.G 🌐 (@365OTG) December 16, 2024
The Grammy-winning artist delivered a two-and-a-half-hour set that celebrated his two-decade-long career. Opening the evening with hits like “Angel Numbers / Ten Toes” and “Heat,” Chris transitioned seamlessly into beloved classics such as “No Air,” “Don’t Judge Me,” and “Back to Sleep.” A standout moment of the night was his thrilling aerial stunt during “Wall to Wall,” which had the audience in awe.
Throughout the performance, Chris showcased his versatility with four outfit changes, each reflecting different eras of his musical journey, including basketball-inspired streetwear. To pay homage to South Africa, Breezy’s DJ played local classics like Brenda Fassie’s “Weekend Special,” and the artist honored late South African music icons AKA and Riky Rick with renditions of “Fela In Versace” and “Boss Zonke.”
As the concert neared its conclusion, Chris paused during his timeless hit “Forever” to express heartfelt gratitude to his South African fans.
“I just want to say from the bottom of my heart, I love you guys so much. This night means the world to me. I’ve been waiting my whole life for this kind of moment,” he told the roaring crowd.
Chris Brown successfully finished his tour in South Africa bringing around +92k people for two days in a row to one of the biggest stadiums in the world.
— 𝖍𝖊𝖑𝖔 (@hwloiza) December 15, 2024
The first R&B singer to ever do it, congrats @chrisbrown. pic.twitter.com/6qjCXvbI4p
Chris Brown’s return to Johannesburg carried additional weight, as he had been previously banned from performing in South Africa following his 2009 domestic violence incident involving ex-girlfriend Rihanna. Ahead of the concert, advocacy group Women For Change launched a petition calling for the shows to be canceled. Despite the controversy, the event went on as planned, with fans showing unwavering support for the R&B star.
Chris Brown’s sold-out performance not only highlighted his enduring influence in the music industry but also reinforced his deep connection with his South African fanbase.
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