R. Kelly‘s efforts to combat claims that he is filthy pervert have come to no avail today after Apple Music followed in the footsteps of Spotify by pulling its support for the ageing singer’s music.
Several young girls and women have accused the performer of abusing them and, after one of his ex-girlfriends revealed she had proof that the singer had urinated on a fourteen-year-old girl, found supporters in several celebrities who called on the industry to #MuteRKelly.
The star, who is also accused of molesting his own goddaughter, revealed that he was infuriated by the rumours after his closest friends betrayed his trust by telling the press that he was deeply paranoid, and feared the wall of silence he built to conceal his perversion was crumbling.
The latest development? Apple’s and Pandora’s decision to pull the plug on their respective relationships with the vocalist.
How? By pulling him the playlists he used to reach new audiences.
Pandora shares…
Pandora’s policy is to not actively promote artists with certain demonstrable behavioral, ethical or criminal issues. We approach each of these scenarios on a case–by–case basis to ensure we address components true to Pandora’s principles while not overreaching and avoiding censorship.
Kelly’s music has been pulled from Apple Music-curated playlists such as “Best Slow Jams of the 90s, Vol. 1” and Vol. 2. (Kelly is prominently featured in the artwork for the playlists, but his music is no longer in them.) Seven R. Kelly-centric playlists (including “R. Kelly Essentials,” “R. Kelly: Influences,” and “Inspired by R. Kelly”) are still on the streaming service.