Grammy-winning singer Chris Brown was released on bail after a London nightclub assault charge, enabling his upcoming world tour to proceed.
Grammy-winning singer Chris Brown was released on £5 million ($6.7 million) bail Wednesday, allowing him to continue preparations for his world tour despite facing serious assault allegations in London.
Brown, 36, had been held in custody since last week after a Manchester judge ordered his detention following charges of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. The charges stem from a violent incident in February 2023, when Brown allegedly attacked music producer Abe Diaw at the Tape nightclub in Mayfair, one of London’s most upscale areas.
The Southwark Crown Court judge, Tony Baumgartner, granted bail on the condition that Brown pay the hefty sum to guarantee his return for upcoming court dates. Brown was released from Salford jail outside Manchester on Wednesday afternoon.
The bail decision is a significant development for Brown, who faced the prospect of missing the start of his European tour, scheduled to begin June 8 in Amsterdam. Had he remained in custody, the first two shows would have been cancelled. The tour will then continue to North America starting in July.
Brown, who did not attend Wednesday’s hearing, is accused of an unprovoked attack on Diaw involving a bottle, punches, and kicks, which prosecutors say was captured on surveillance footage. Prosecutor Hannah Nicholls outlined the violent assault that took place in front of club patrons.
A second man, American musician Omololu Akinlolu—known professionally as “Hoody Baby” and a friend of Brown—has also been charged in connection with the assault. Neither Brown nor Akinlolu has entered a plea, and both are due back in court on June 20.
Chris Brown’s music career spans nearly two decades, having first gained fame as a teenager in 2005. He has earned two Grammys for Best R&B Album, most recently for “11:11 (Deluxe)” earlier this year. Some of his most popular tracks include “Run It,” “Kiss Kiss,” and “Without You.”
The assault allegations and court proceedings have cast a shadow over the singer’s professional activities, prompting questions about the feasibility of his planned tour. The judge’s decision to grant bail signals judicial confidence that Brown will comply with legal processes while pursuing his career.
Fans and industry insiders have watched developments closely, as Brown’s ongoing legal troubles have threatened to disrupt scheduled performances. His release on bail brings some clarity but does not resolve the serious charges he faces.
The assault allegedly occurred during Brown’s last tour in London, making the timing of the charges particularly impactful on his current tour plans. The case highlights ongoing concerns about celebrity conduct and accountability in the entertainment industry.
Brown’s management has not publicly commented on the case since his release, focusing instead on promoting the upcoming shows. The European leg starts in Amsterdam on June 8, followed by a series of North American dates beginning in July.
As the legal process continues, Brown will be under close scrutiny both in court and in the public eye. His bail release allows him to move forward with his career, but the assault case remains unresolved, with a court date set for late June
