Bobby Brown says one of the most controversial moments from his early solo career unexpectedly helped make Don’t Be Cruel even bigger.
People reported that Brown traced another surge in attention around the 1988 album to his January 1989 arrest during a concert in Columbus, Georgia.
The singer was taken into custody after a provocative stage routine led police to accuse him of violating the city’s anti-lewdness ordinance.
Brown posted bail and returned to finish the show. Looking back nearly four decades later, he called the incident “unfortunate,” but said the publicity pushed more listeners toward the album.
Brown Says the Arrest Sent Fans to the Album
Brown was arrested after bringing a woman from the audience onto the stage during a sexually suggestive routine. The incident became part of the rebellious public image that followed him after he left New Edition and established himself as a solo performer.
“That was unfortunate but that’s when the record actually went viral, or what they call viral today,” Brown told People. “Everybody started buying the album.”
Brown said the attention helped him realize the album had become something special. He also credited producers Babyface and L.A. Reid, who helped shape several of the record’s defining songs.
Don’t Be Cruel Became His Defining Solo Record
Don’t Be Cruel was released in 1988 as Brown’s second solo studio album. It included “My Prerogative,” “Every Little Step,” “Roni,” “Rock Wit’cha” and the title track.
People reported that the album sold about 12 million copies worldwide. Brown said the music still feels closer to 20 years old because he continues to perform the songs regularly.
Brown named “My Prerogative” as his favorite song from the album, while also saying he still enjoys performing “Roni” and “Every Little Step.”
Brown Would Give His Younger Self Different Advice
Brown described himself during the album’s original era as focused, raw and untamed. He was still a young performer when the record turned him into one of R&B’s most visible solo stars.
Given the chance to speak to his younger self, Brown told People he would tell him to slow down, avoid taking life too seriously and spend less time partying.
He Is Celebrating the Album With a Los Angeles Show
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Brown is marking the album’s lasting popularity with a one-night performance at the Saban Theatre in Beverly Hills on July 10.
The singer said preparing for the show has required practice, sleep and careful attention to his energy. At 57, he said his focus is giving the audience the strongest performance he can deliver.