Singer Chris Brown free on bail while awaiting trial over alleged London nightclub attack

Chris Brown Released on $9.3 Million Bail in London Assault Case

Grammy-winning singer Chris Brown was ordered released on 5-million-pound ($9.3 million Cdn) bail by a British judge on Wednesday, following allegations that he beat and seriously injured a music producer with a bottle in a London nightclub in 2023.

The decision by a judge in Southwark Crown Court allows Brown to continue his world tour, which was in jeopardy after he was initially ordered held in custody last week on charges of causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

Judge Tony Baumgartner ruled that Brown could proceed with his tour, which includes several stops in the U.K., upon payment of the bail to ensure his appearance in court. Brown’s next court appearance is scheduled for June 13.

If held until then, Brown would have missed at least two dates on his upcoming tour, which is set to begin next month in Europe.

The assault incident involving Brown, 36, and producer Abe Diaw occurred at the Tape nightclub in London’s Mayfair neighborhood in February 2023 during Brown’s previous tour. Prosecutors allege that Brown struck Diaw with a bottle, followed by punching and kicking him in a violent attack captured on surveillance footage in front of a crowd.

American musician Omololu Akinlolu, known as Hoody Baby and a friend of Brown, was also charged in the assault. Both men are yet to enter a plea and are scheduled to appear in court again on June 20.

Chris Brown rose to fame as a teenager in 2005 and has since won multiple Grammy Awards, including one for Best R&B Album for F.A.M.E. in 2011 and another for 11:11 (Deluxe) earlier this year. His popular hits include Run It, Kiss Kiss, and Without You.

The singer’s upcoming tour is slated to commence on June 8 in Amsterdam, followed by North American shows in July, with performances scheduled in Toronto.