Chris Brown Kicks Off UK Tour in Manchester Amid Pending Court Hearing

US singer Chris Brown has commenced his UK tour with a performance at the Co-op Live arena in Manchester on June 15, 2025, just days before a scheduled court hearing in London related to an alleged nightclub assault from 2023. The Grammy Award-winning artist, currently out on £5 million bail, faces charges of grievous bodily harm following accusations that he launched an unprovoked attack on a producer using a tequila bottle at a London nightclub during his previous UK tour last year.

Despite the serious allegations and his recent arrest in Manchester, Brown expressed gratitude to his fans for their support and even joked about his time in custody, saying, ”Thank you to the jail. It was really nice”. His opening show in Manchester attracted thousands of fans and included a video montage highlighting key moments from his career, which elicited cheers from the audience.

Brown was detained upon his return to the UK last month but was released after agreeing to the substantial bail amount, which allows him to continue touring while awaiting court proceedings. His current tour, titled “Breezy Bowl XX,” celebrates two decades in the music industry and includes multiple UK arena dates throughout June and July, with upcoming shows in Cardiff, London, Birmingham, Glasgow, and additional performances in Manchester.

The court hearing is set for June 20, 2025, where Brown and co-defendant Omololu Akinlolu, also known as HoodyBaby, will face the charges. The judge has permitted Brown to continue his tour as part of his bail conditions, reflecting the balance between his legal obligations and professional commitment.

The ongoing situation has drawn mixed reactions from fans and critics, with some expressing support for Brown’s music and others concerned about the legal allegations overshadowing his career. Brown remains a prominent figure in R&B and pop music, with a history of chart-topping hits and recent accolades, including the Best Male R&B/Pop award at the Los Angeles Awards.