By Gift Sebiloane
Johannesburg, South Africa – Johannesburg is still reeling from the sheer spectacle of Chris Brown’s Live in Johannesburg, Breezy in South Africa’ concert at FNB Stadium last night.
The show was a masterclass in entertainment, exceeding all expectations with a setlist packed with hits, mind-blowing dance routines, and a stage production that pushed the boundaries of creativity.
But one moment, in particular, left the audience breathless: Chris Brown, defying gravity, soaring above the crowd. Strapped into a harness, Brown took flight during a performance of “Under the Influence,” his silhouette gliding against a backdrop of flashing lights and pyrotechnics. The stadium erupted in cheers as he effortlessly navigated the air, his vocals as flawless as his aerial acrobatics.
This breathtaking display was just one of the many highlights of a night that will be etched in the memories of those lucky enough to be present. From the moment Brown stepped onto the stage, the energy was electric. He commanded the crowd with his signature charisma, leading them through a musical journey that spanned his entire career.
Classic hits like ‘Run It!‘, ‘Kiss Kiss‘, and ‘With You‘ had the entire stadium singing and dancing in unison, while newer tracks showcased his artistic evolution. Brown’s vocal prowess was on full display, his voice soaring effortlessly through every note.
The production was a visual feast, with stunning stage design, intricate lighting, and mesmerising visual effects. His team of dancers were perfectly synchronised, their energy amplifying Brown’s every move.
But beyond the spectacle, it was the connection between Brown and his South African fans that made the night truly special, as he repeatedly expressed his gratitude for their unwavering support, creating an atmosphere of intimacy and shared passion. It was, equally so, a testament to his talent, this is despite initial backlash with a petition to ban him from performing due to history of alleged abuse incidents.
Women for Change started a petition early October on Change.org that attracted tens of thousands of signatures, hoping to stop Brown — who pleaded guilty in 2009 to assaulting then-girlfriend Rihanna, and was sentenced to probation and com i,s, munity labor — from performing in South Africa.
Despite the protest, the King of R&B sold out the 94,000-person capacity stadium in under two hours, and a second show was added.