Kelly Rowland shuts down critics, praises Chris Brown at American Music Awards: 'Chill out'

Kelly Rowland is a loyal Chris Brown supporter.

The Destiny’s Child alum made an appearance at the 2022 American Music Awards on Sunday and presented the award for favorite male R&B artist. Standing onstage in a strapless cheetah-print dress and black gloves, Rowland revealed the winner of the award was singer-songwriter Brown.

However, it seemed not everyone was pleased with Brown – who was not in attendance at the AMAs – being honored with the award.

As Rowland began to give an acceptance speech on Brown’s behalf, she appeared to scold people in the audience who were seemingly booing. "Excuse me, chill out,” Rowland said.

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Rowland then continued to praise Brown for his artistry and contribution to the R&B genre.

"I want to tell Chris, ‘Thank you so much for making great R&B music,’ and I want to tell him, ‘Thank you for being an incredible performer,’ " Rowland said. "I’ll take this award (and) bring it to you. I love you."

Brown released his 10th studio album "Breezy" in June. The album, which boasts collaborations with Lil Wayne, Jack Harlow, H.E.R. and Lil Baby, earned Brown a nomination for best R&B album at the 65th Grammy Awards. He also scored a pair of nominations at last year’s Grammys, thanks to appearances on Ye’s “Donda” and H.E.R.’s “Back of My Mind.”

Despite the mixed studio audience reaction, viewers watching from home took to social media Sunday to express appreciation for Rowland’s defense of Brown.

“Kelly Rowland said you ain't gonna cut me off(,) Chris Brown needs his flowers,” Twitter user @big_business_wrote.

“Thank you Kelly Rowland for that genuine love you just showed Chris Brown for winning,” @ThereGoTerry tweeted.

“Chris brown definitely deserves that award #amas and shout out to Kelly Rowland for making sure everybody know to appreciate Chris browns impact on music and more specifically r&b music,” @ZackMinajOG wrote on Twitter.

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Kelly Rowland defends Chris Brown's win at American Music Awards