Chris Brown, one of the best-selling artists of all time, has solidified his legacy as a powerhouse in the music industry. Frequently hailed as the “King of R&B” by his peers, Brown has amassed an unprecedented collection of accolades, including the most RIAA Gold-certified singles and multi-Platinum singles of any male pop artist. Yet, even with a career defined by milestones, the singer has achieved another historic feat: his first-ever Diamond-certified single.
On November 13, Brown celebrated the massive success of his 2019 hit “No Guidance,” a collaboration with Drake, which officially surpassed 10 million units sold. Taking to Instagram to share his excitement, he posted simply, “Diamond. Cook and remain humble.”
The Diamond certification represents a rare and prestigious milestone, awarded only to songs that endure over time and continue to captivate audiences years after their release. “No Guidance” exemplifies this staying power. The track peaked at number five on the Billboard Hot 100, marking Brown’s highest-charting pop song since 2008’s “Forever.” It also shattered records, spending the most weeks atop the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay chart.
While “No Guidance” didn’t claim the top spot on the Hot 100, it has become one of the most significant songs in Brown’s career. Its enduring popularity owes much to the collaboration between Brown and Drake—two artists who had famously been at odds for much of the 2010s. Their decision to put past rivalries aside created palpable anticipation for the single, which delivered on every front.
In a 2019 interview with Rap Radar, Drake expressed admiration for Brown’s talent, stating, “I just always had a lot of respect for his craft. I think he returned that respect by letting me take the lead on this song.”
The Diamond certification arrives as a bright spot for Chris Brown, who has recently faced renewed scrutiny following the release of the documentary A History of Violence.
The film revisits the darker chapters of his past, including allegations of abuse and interviews with several women who have come forward with accusations against him. Despite the controversy, Brown’s commercial success remains untarnished.
The Diamond plaque for “No Guidance” is a testament to his ability to resonate with audiences and cement his place among music’s elite.
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