Chris Brown Bails on Kids' Award Show

Singer channels tumultuous year into great music

(NEWSER) - Rihanna's been through a lot since she released her last album, and the excellent Rated R is all the better for it, writes Greg Kot. After the much-publicized Chris Brown incident, her music has become darker and more serious than the airy pop of "Umbrella" and "SOS." Most of the tracks feel deeply personal, Kot writes, suggesting that "she had a much greater voice in this album than any of her previous efforts, recorded when she was a teenager." More»

'No one is more disappointed in me than I am,' singer says in YouTube video

(NEWSER) - Chris Brown breaks the silence on his alleged assault on Rihanna with a YouTube confessional posted today, E! reports. “I felt it was time that you heard directly from me that I am sorry,” the singer said, explaining that he had remained silent since the February incident on the advice of his attorney. More»

(NEWSER) - R&B star Chris Brown pleaded guilty to felony assault today and will get 5 years’ probation but no jail time, TMZ reports. Also included: Six months of labor, mandatory court visits every three months, and a restraining order keeping him 50 yards from his victim, singer Rihanna, at all times. The judge said Brown “was treated as any other person who comes through this court.” More»

Plus, details of two prior incidents emerge

(NEWSER) - Rihanna and alleged abuser Chris Brown are recording a duet slated for Brown’s new album, E! reports. The pair has been holed up in a California recording studio with an award-winning producer. Another source confirmed Rihanna is recording again, using music as “her refuge.” Meanwhile, the New York Daily News says Rihanna told police about two previous fights with Brown. More»

(NEWSER) - Chris Brown seems to be doing pretty well, all things considered—not only is he reportedly holed up in Diddy’s Miami mansion with the girlfriend he’s accused of assaulting, he’s also been recording tracks for a new album, E! reports. Though he shot down rumors of partying with Khloe Kardashian on Saturday, the singer hasn’t exactly been laying low—he’s been photographed jet skiing and looking relaxed, but as the Mail points out—with no Rihanna in sight. More»