American singer R. Kelly has surprised fans by releasing a remix of Chris Brown’s song “Residuals,” despite being behind bars.
The “Residuals” challenge, which started last month by singer Tank, has seen many artists, including Mario, Jacob Latimore, and Boyz II Men’s Shawn Stockman, adding their own verses to Chris Brown’s 2023 hit.
R. Kelly, who is currently serving time for multiple sex crime convictions, joined the challenge through a phone call from prison. His version of the remix was shared online by his producer, Rodney East.
In the song, Kelly expressed frustration over his situation, questioning why his music still makes money but he doesn’t receive support for his prison commissary.
“They’re still selling my music, making all this money / Don’t even send shit to my folks for commissary / Though I’m in this place, I know I don’t deserve this / There’s questions on my mind / There’s questions on my mind,” he sang.
He also wondered about his financial affairs, singing: “Tell me who, who’s getting all my checks? / Where is my money at? / Tell me who, who’s getting paid for my grind? / All of that’s supposed to be mine.”
Rodney East confirmed on Instagram that the voice was indeed R. Kelly’s, writing: “Big Bro Decided 2 Pull up On The Challenge. No AI, The Real Deal… IYKYK. Voice Is Definitely Missed Out Here.”
Several artists, including SWV’s LeLee Lyons, Jozzy, L.T. Hutton, and Tyrese, praised the remix. Tyrese commented: “How many times can I hit this KING BUTTON.”
In a recent podcast interview, R. Kelly revealed that he has written about 25 albums while in prison. “I’m always singing, I’m always writing,” he said during his appearance on “Inmate Tea with A&P.”
He also spoke about his legal battle, claiming he is still hopeful for release. “I’m working on getting out,” he said. “I’m using patience as a tactic.”
Kelly’s lawyer, Jean Bonjean, told TMZ: “Our appeals process has not come to an end. We will continue to fight for justice and for his freedom.”
According to the Bureau of Prisons records, R. Kelly is expected to be released on December 21, 2045, when he will be 78 years old.
