Chris Brown Sells Out Two South Africa Shows At One Of World’s Largest Stadiums
Both show dates held over 90,000 attendees following a petition to ban Breezy’s appearance.
Chris Brown is truly a living legend, as he just sold out two consecutive shows in Johannesburg, South Africa on Saturday and Sunday (Dec. 14-15). The ethereal performances came after women’s rights activists tried to ban him from coming to the FNB stadium, which saw over 90,000 attendees each night.
“I’ve been waiting my whole life for this kind of moment,” a full-hearted Brown told the massive crowd. “I just want to say from the bottom of my heart I love you guys so much. This night means a lot to me.”
He added, “I ain’t been out here in a long time. I’ve been rocking for two and a half hours, and y’all just let me rock. I appreciate that.” The audience then starting chanting, “Breezy!” showing just how much love the 35-year-old has around the world.
The show, which has been dubbed the “Breezy Bowl” saw Brown perform with his 18 dancers to many of his hits dating back from 2002 to present day.
Not only did the musical icon perform his Amapiano and Afrobeat songs like “Sensational” featuring Davido and “MONALISA” with South African artist Lojay, he also gave the crowd classics including “Yo (Excuse Me Miss),” “Wall to Wall,” “Run It!” and newer hits like “Residuals,” “Angel Numbers/Ten Toes,” and “Under The Influence.”
Breezy’s DJ also made sure to connect to the land by playing South African classics like Brenda Fassie’s “Weekend Special,” Riky Rick’s “Boss Zonke,” and Mgarimbe’s “Sister Bethina.” Additionally, in true CB fashion, he made sure to throw some lucky fans his jacket, hat, and a shirt, sparking much commotion.
He also stayed true to his 11:11 concert antics and flew across the entire stadium.
Truly a successful two shows, social media chimed in dubbing Chris Brown the “Michael Jackson of our generation.” However, everyone hasn’t been excited about Brown performing in the country.
Back in October, the father-of-three was petitioned to cancel his show in South Africa. According to BBC, South African organization Women for Change campaigned against the star, claiming that his show would “send the wrong message” to its citizens, given his past history of violence.
Upon the concert’s announcement, it sold out in less than two hours.
“When I saw the news that Chris Brown was coming to South Africa, I was shocked and deeply disappointed,” stated Sabina Walter, executive director of Women for Change. “The petition was started to send a strong message that we will not tolerate the celebration of individuals with a history of violence against women.”
On the flipside, former University of Cape Town vice-chancellor Prof. Mamokgethi Phakeng shared that she’d be attending the concert. “I am totally against GBV and condemn it. I believe that those who perpetrate GBV should face the full might of the law without exceptions or leniency,” she wrote at the time. “But let me be clear, just in case the message didn’t sit well: I am going to attend Brown’s concert if he comes. These two things are not mutually exclusive.”
Following news of the petition against him, the Virginia native took to the group’s Instagram page with a simple comment: “Can’t wait to come,” followed by a heart emoji. Ahead of tearing up the stage two nights in a row, Brown had something else to say: “YOU A GOD even when they say you not! Look inside.”
Take a look at a clip of the crowd of one of the sold out shows below.
