Chris Brown Granted Bail to Perform World Tour — But Must Follow Two Conditions Ahead of UK Trial

On 21 May 2025, American R&B artist Chris Brown was granted bail by a UK court, allowing him to continue his world tour while facing serious assault charges. The decision came just days after Brown was arrested in Manchester, in connection with a violent incident at a London nightclub that left a music producer hospitalised.

The 36-year-old singer, who was detained over claims he attacked Abraham Diaw with a glass bottle at Tape nightclub in Mayfair in early 2023, now faces charges of grievous bodily harm with intent. After initially being denied release, Brown has now posted £5 million in bail and agreed to strict conditions that will keep him under the watchful eye of UK authorities while the case moves forward.

Serious Charges, Serious Allegations

According to court documents, the alleged assault took place in February 2023 during a private party at the exclusive Tape venue. Prosecutors say Brown struck Diaw in the face with a bottle and continued to kick him after he fell to the ground. The charges fall under the Offences Against the Person Act 1861, a statute still used in modern-day prosecutions for violent offences.

Also implicated is Omololu Akinlolu, a close associate of Brown better known by his stage name Hoody Baby. He too faces charges in relation to the same incident. Both men have denied wrongdoing, but the case is expected to unfold throughout the summer, with further developments anticipated in court next month.

Bail Comes with Strings Attached

Judge Tony Baumgartner approved Brown's bail but didn't let him off lightly. The singer was ordered to pay £4 million up front, with the remaining £1 million due within seven days. In addition to the financial conditions, Brown must live at an address approved by the court, surrender his passport when not touring, and avoid any contact with both the alleged victim and his co-defendant.

These terms allow Brown to continue his 'Breezy Bowl XX' tour, which marks the 20th anniversary of his debut album. But freedom comes with limits. Brown's legal team will need to ensure he remains fully compliant or risk jeopardising the tour and potentially, his defence.

A Global Tour Under a Legal Cloud

The tour is due to kick off on 8 June in Amsterdam, with Brown set to return to Manchester, the city where he was arrested just a week later. The schedule includes stops across Europe and North America, with performances running through to October.

While Brown has permission to travel for shows, he is expected back in the UK for court appearances. His next hearing is scheduled for 20 June, when he's expected to enter a formal plea. If he contests the charges, the trial could extend into 2026.Industry insiders say tour organisers are pressing ahead, but contingency plans are in place in case court proceedings disrupt any future dates. 'It's a balancing act,' one promoter told reporters. 'The fans want the shows. But the legal team calls the shots.'

A Familiar Pattern of Trouble

This isn't the first time Brown has faced serious legal consequences. His 2009 conviction for assaulting then-partner Rihanna remains one of the most high-profile celebrity domestic violence cases in recent memory. He received probation and community service, and although he's publicly apologised and continued to release music, controversy has never been far behind.

Since then, Brown has faced a string of lawsuits, restraining orders, and police investigations. While not all have led to charges, they have fuelled a reputation for volatility that he's never fully shaken. The current case involving claims of violence and serious bodily harm may be the most consequential yet.

What Comes Next

The spotlight now turns to 20 June, when Brown will return to Southwark Crown Court. If he pleads not guilty, a full trial could follow,forcing a collision between his performance schedule and courtroom demands.

So far, Brown has remained silent about the case. But with fans watching, promoters hedging their bets, and the legal system closing in, this summer could become the most pivotal chapter of his career to date.