Sports analyst and podcaster Stephen A. Smith has sparked controversy by suggesting that it is now acceptable to listen to the music of R. Kelly, the disgraced R&B singer who is currently serving a 30-year prison sentence for racketeering and sex trafficking.
During the latest episode of his self-titled podcast, Smith was asked by a fan to name the best sex song. In response, Smith listed a number of songs by artists such as Troop, Luther Vandross, Teddy Pendergrass, and Prince. Then, he brought up R. Kelly, saying, “I don’t want to bring up R. Kelly, but I think it’s okay now because he’s in jail. Now, if he was not in jail it would not be okay, because he’s getting away with stuff, but now that they finally got his ass and he’s in jail, it’s okay to bring up R. Kelly music now.”
Smith went on to list a number of R. Kelly songs that he considers to be great love-making songs, including “Dedicated,” “Your Body’s Calling,” “12 Play,” and “Honey Love.” He also added a warning to the men listening in on how to use the songs he’s given out, saying, “Now, fellas, timing is everything. See, you can’t just say, ‘Let’s just play the song.’ If she was cooking and she ain’t feeling lovey-dovey and you play the music, but then you step to her with the music, you might even get it. Here’s the problem, you’re just getting sex, you’re not making love. And if you ain’t making love, you don’t need to be asking questions like this. You understand me? The ambiance got to be nice too.”
Smith’s comments have been met with mixed reactions. Some people have praised him for being honest about his love of R. Kelly’s music, while others have criticized him for suggesting that it is now acceptable to listen to Kelly’s work even though he has been convicted of serious crimes.
It is important to note that R. Kelly is a convicted sex offender who has been accused of abusing and assaulting numerous women and girls. His music has been praised for its romanticism and sensuality, but it is also important to remember that Kelly’s actions have caused a great deal of pain and suffering.
Ultimately, whether or not to listen to R. Kelly’s music is a personal decision. However, it is important to be aware of the allegations against him and to make an informed decision based on all of the facts.
