Kelly Rowland told jeering audience members to “relax” on Sunday as she accepted an American Music Award for an absent Chris Brown. (Watch the video below.)
Rowland announced that Brown, who punched Rihanna in 2009 and has faced several recent allegations of violence against women, won for Favorite Male R&B Artist, prompting some boos at the Microsoft Theater.
“Excuse me,” said Rowland. “Take it easy.”
Rowland later praised Brown. “I want to thank Chris for making great R&B music. And I want to thank you for being an incredible artist. I will take this prize, I bring it to you. I love you. Congratulations.”
Brown previously said on Instagram that his scheduled appearance at the awards show, where he was supposed to pay tribute to Michael Jackson, had been cancelled.
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