25 Facts You Probably Didn’t Know About Chris Brown

25 Facts You Probably Didn’t Know About Chris Brown

By franklyn Chiss

 Chris Brown is one of the most beloved and controversial singers of our time. He’s proved that he’s a remarkable force in R&B ever since the release of his self-titled debut album in 2005. Like his hero Michael Jackson, the fresh-faced crooner is no doubt a multiple threat on the mic and on the dance floor. While his voice has earned him worldwide recognition, the 25-year-old has had his share of career ups and downs. After his infamous arrest for assaulting then-girlfriend Rihanna in 2009, many all but wrote Breezy out. He returned, arguably bigger than ever, with 2011′s ‘F.A.M.E.’ Even amid recent legal issues, CB continues his hot streak with ‘Loyal.’ Love him or hate him, this entertainer is a household name. Here are 25 Facts You Probably Didn’t Know About Chris Brown

1

Chris Brown sang a song Keri Hilson penned for him on his first album called 'Young Love.'

2

As a little 2-year-old tyke, CB taught himself to sing and dance. 

3

The late, great Michael Jackson was Chris’ artistic inspiration. "My mama can tell you -- ever since I was little, watching Michael Jackson on the TV screen and imitating him," he said. 

4

In elementary school, he starred in a school play called 'Elfis' (inspired by Elvis).

5

Chris is a natural athlete and was a great basketball player since elementary school. He was the only 6th grader playing on the 8th grade team.

6

Always a heartbreaker, Chris says he lost his virginity at the tender age of 8. 

7

At 15, the singer auditioned for mogul L.A. Reid and was offered a recording contract on the spot.

8

Unfortunately, his stepfather was abusive while he was growing up. "He made me terrified all the time... I remember one night he made [my mother's] nose bleed. I was crying and thinking, ‘I’m just gonna go crazy on him one day…’ I hate him to this day,” Brown shared.

9

Michael Jackson called an 18-year-old Chris and apparently relayed that he loved the song 'Shortie Like Mine.

10

Never one to back down from a fight, Breezy was involved in a scuffle with a guy over a chair at a basketball game when he was 15.

11

In 2007, Chris was named one of PEOPLE's "Most Beautiful" celebrities.

12

Chris celebrated his 18th birthday with two parties and bought himself a swanky Lamborghini.

13

His biggest insecurity is his height. "I'm 6'1''. If I get too tall, it'll be hard to dance because there's so much more to do to move your body," he told PEOPLE.

14

From onstage to onscreen, the crooner made his film debut in 'Stomp the Yard' and did a three-episode stint on 'The O.C.' in 2007.

15

The singer never went to his high school prom but said that his dream date back then was Ciara.

16

His boy-next-door looks earned him a GOT MILK ad in 2008. The ad was later pulled after his arrest the following year.

17

While some may bash him for his recent behavior, CB has always been a fan of Justin Bieber: "[Justin] reminds me a lot of me when I was younger. I kind of try and be the big brother and make him go the right way and have a great time."

18

He's not a playa, he just loves a lot. Chris told XXL in 2012, "Love is something I am still learning. It’s just an obstacle that I haven’t yet mastered. I think that’s my biggest hurdle in life."

19

Like the title of his album, 'Graffiti,' CB loves art. “I use music or painting as my outlet to get through the confusion," he has explained about his art.

20

Chris' on again-off again girlfriend Karrueche Tran was the muse for his 2011 artwork titled 'Falling in Love.'

21

He admits his arrest for assaulting Rihanna was a wake-up call. In 2013, he described "the Rihanna incident" as "probably the biggest wake-up call for me. I had to stop acting like a little teenager, a crazy, wild young guy."

22

In addition to acting in 2010's 'Takers,' Breezy is also billed as the action drama's executive producer.

23

Chris has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.

24

Rapping was his initial interest, not singing. He's even rapped on tracks like 'Look At Me Now.'

25

In addition to Rihanna, Chris Brown has reportedly dated 'Basketball Wives' star Draya and has been linked to Kim Kardashian.