For decades, R. Kelly was considered one of the greatest R&B artists of all time. His ability to craft soulful ballads and infectious party anthems made him a sought-after collaborator for some of the biggest names in the music industry. However, after the 2019 release of Surviving R. Kelly, a damning documentary exposing his decades-long history of sexual abuse allegations, many artists who once worked with him quickly sought to distance themselves.
From Lady Gaga to Celine Dion and Chance the Rapper, some of the industry’s most respected names have expressed regret over their collaborations with Kelly. In some cases, they’ve even gone as far as removing their songs with him from streaming platforms. Let’s take a look at some of the most famous R. Kelly collaborations that artists now wish they could erase from history.
Lady Gaga – “Do What U Want” (2013)
Lady Gaga teamed up with R. Kelly in 2013 for Do What U Want, a song from her album ARTPOP. The track was provocative, with lyrics that, in hindsight, were deeply problematic given the accusations against Kelly. The duo even performed the song on Saturday Night Live, showcasing an overtly sexual routine that now feels uncomfortable to watch.
After Surviving R. Kelly aired, Gaga took to social media to express regret over the collaboration, stating, “I stand behind these women 1000%, believe them, know they are suffering and in pain, and feel strongly that their voices should be heard and taken seriously.” She also had the song removed from streaming platforms.
Celine Dion – “I’m Your Angel” (1998)
Celine Dion and R. Kelly released I’m Your Angel in 1998, a sentimental ballad that became a massive hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. However, after the release of Surviving R. Kelly, Dion took action to separate herself from the disgraced singer.
In early 2019, Dion pulled the song from streaming services and digital platforms. She did not make an extensive public statement, but the decision spoke volumes about her stance on the issue.
Chance the Rapper – “Somewhere in Paradise” (2015) & “Hotel” (2012)
Chance the Rapper was one of the few hip-hop artists who openly admitted to regretting working with R. Kelly. In the past, Chance had collaborated with Kelly on Somewhere in Paradise and Hotel.
After Surviving R. Kelly aired, Chance expressed remorse, saying in an interview, “Making a song with R. Kelly was a mistake.” He also acknowledged that, as a Black man in the music industry, he initially ignored the allegations due to how society often fails Black women who speak out against abuse. His candid admission was seen as a step toward accountability.
Other Artists Who Distanced Themselves
Aside from these high-profile cases, many other artists have worked with R. Kelly over the years—some of whom have also taken steps to distance themselves:
- Jennifer Hudson – She removed their duet Where You At from streaming services.
- Omarion – Announced that he would no longer perform songs produced by R. Kelly.
- B2K – Disowned the songs he wrote for them, such as Bump, Bump, Bump.
- Ciara – Expressed regret over collaborating with Kelly on Next to You.
The Industry’s Attempt to ‘Erase’ R. Kelly
Since Surviving R. Kelly, the music industry has made significant moves to erase R. Kelly from its history. Radio stations dropped his songs, streaming services limited his presence, and former collaborators publicly distanced themselves. Even his 2021 conviction on sex trafficking and racketeering charges further cemented his downfall.
While R. Kelly’s impact on R&B is undeniable, the industry’s response reflects a larger cultural shift. More than ever, fans and artists alike are refusing to separate the art from the artist when serious allegations are involved.
In the end, these regretted collaborations serve as a reminder that fame should never shield abusers from accountability—and that the voices of survivors must always come first.
What Do You Think?
Do you believe artists should erase their collaborations with R. Kelly, or should the music remain available despite his crimes? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!