Chris Brown is responding after Texas State Representative Venton Jones apologized for participating in an event honoring the singer.
Brown and Usher received recognition during their September 12 concert at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett recognized both artists through an entry in the Congressional Record, while Jones participated in presenting a State of Texas legislative recognition.
The decision to honor Brown received criticism because of his past legal history, including his 2009 felony assault conviction involving Rihanna.
Jones later appeared on The Don Lemon Show and apologized to Black women, women generally and survivors of domestic violence who were hurt by his participation in the recognition.
Jones said it was never his intention to bring up painful memories or trauma associated with domestic violence.
Brown was not happy with the apology.
In a series of Instagram posts, Chris stressed that he never asked to receive the recognition in the first place.
“Y’all came to me with this! Not the other way around,” Brown wrote.
He also criticized Jones for apologizing after the backlash and said he would rather return the state recognition.
Brown ended his response by saying he wants to be left alone so he can focus on the fans who continue supporting him and attending his concerts.
Brown responded differently to Crockett, thanking her for the congressional recognition and acknowledging the criticism she received over the decision.
The controversy continues to spark debate over whether an artist’s professional accomplishments should be formally recognized separately from their personal and legal history.