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Bobby Brown: Arrest Sparked My Album's Viral Success
10 Jul
Summary
- Bobby Brown's debut album 'Don't Be Cruel' sold 12 million copies worldwide.
- An arrest in 1989 for a lewdness ordinance unexpectedly boosted album sales.
- Brown reflects on his past 'bad boy' image and offers advice to his younger self.
Singer Bobby Brown is reflecting on the enduring success of his debut solo album, "Don't Be Cruel," released over 35 years ago. The album, which achieved worldwide sales of 12 million copies, featured hit songs such as the title track, "My Prerogative," and "Every Little Step."
Brown, now 57, recalls the album's release as a time of "pure energy" and widespread public acceptance. He specifically highlighted an "unfortunate" experience in January 1989: his arrest in Columbus, Georgia, for violating an anti-lewdness ordinance. This incident, which involved a skit with a fan, unexpectedly led to the album going "viral," significantly boosting sales.
Looking back at his "bad boy" reputation from that period, Brown expressed a desire to have advised his younger self to "slow down" and not party as much. He is currently in a good place, feeling "great" and "blessed," and preparing for a performance in Los Angeles celebrating "Don't Be Cruel."
