R. Kelly has been a force in R&B, pop and hip-hop for decades as a singer, producer and songwriter. He’s collaborated with veteran performers like Michael Jackson, Jay Z and Celine Dion, and he’s launched the careers of protégés including Sparkle and Changing Faces. Kelly’s solo career, which he began in 1993 after leaving the group Public Announcement, has produced a staggering number of hits, from pop smashes like “Bump N’ Grind,” “Ignition (Remix),” “I Wish” and the massive ballad “I Believe I Can Fly” to the epic story song “Trapped in the Closet,” which Kelly expanded into a TV miniseries for IFC, eventually encompassing 23 chapters.
Kelly’s latest release is the 2016 holiday album 12 Nights of Christmas, which, unlike most Christmas collections, features only original songs, all written, produced and performed by Kelly. It’s a testament to his creativity and drive, a relentless outpouring of music that shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon.
The Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel, 9 p.m. Feb. 17, starting at $49.95 plus tax and fee. 888.929.7849
