R. Kelly's Success and Achievements in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 21, 2025

A closer look at the biggest achievements of R. Kelly. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Robert Sylvester Kelly, known as R. Kelly, was a highly successful American singer, songwriter, and record producer in R&B, hip hop, and pop music. Once dubbed the "King of R&B," his career ended due to his arrest in 2019. He was convicted on federal racketeering and sex trafficking charges, stemming from the sexual abuse of minors. These convictions effectively ended his music career and tarnished his legacy.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

1998: Grammy Awards for "I Believe I Can Fly"

In 1998, R. Kelly won three Grammy Awards for his song "I Believe I Can Fly".

February 18, 2003: Chocolate Factory Album Release

On February 18, 2003, R. Kelly released "Chocolate Factory", which debuted as the number one album on the Billboard 200, selling 532,000 copies in its first week, and was met with critical acclaim.

November 2004: "Wonderful" Chart Success

In November 2004, R. Kelly's appearance on Ja Rule's single "Wonderful" alongside Ashanti, led to the song charting at number five on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the UK Singles Chart.

May 2005: "Wonderful" Certified Gold

In May 2005, the single "Wonderful", featuring R. Kelly, was certified gold by the RIAA.

July 2005: TP.3 Reloaded Album Release

In July 2005, R. Kelly released TP.3 Reloaded, which became his fifth consecutive number-one album.

May 29, 2007: Double Up Album Release

On May 29, 2007, R. Kelly released his album Double Up, which became his sixth and final album to chart at number one on the Billboard 200.

2008: Acquitted on child pornography charges

In 2008, R. Kelly was acquitted on all charges, following a controversial trial that started in 2002, regarding leaked video recordings that led to child pornography charges.

March 2011: Named Top R&B Artist

In March 2011, R. Kelly was named the No. 1 R&B artist of the last 25 years by Billboard.

2013: Kelly given key to Baton Rouge

In 2013, R. Kelly was given a key to the city of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, as "an artist whose music brings generations together".

September 30, 2021: Key to Baton Rouge rescinded

On September 30, 2021, following his New York conviction of multiple sex crimes, the key to the city of Baton Rouge, previously given in 2013, was rescinded.