Fans upset as Kelly Rowland opens for Brandy & Monica

Kelly Rowland’s Opening Act Role on The Boy Is Mine Tour Sparks Fan Backlash

The announcement of Brandy and Monica’s first-ever co-headlining The Boy Is Mine Tour, set to kick off on October 16, 2025, has sent waves of excitement through the R&B community. Named after their 1998 Grammy-winning duet, the 24-city arena tour promises a nostalgic celebration of their legacy. However, the inclusion of Kelly Rowland as an opening act alongside Muni Long and American Idol winner Jamal Roberts has stirred controversy.

Fans, taking to social media to voice their disappointment, argue that Rowland, a Destiny’s Child icon and solo star, deserves a headlining spot. This article explores the fan backlash, the artists’ careers, and the broader resurgence of 1990s R&B nostalgia.

R&B Icons Reunite

Brandy Rayana Norwood and Monica Denise Arnold, are R&B titans whose 1998 duet defined an era. Brandy, dubbed “The Vocal Bible,” debuted with her self-titled album in 1994, selling six million copies. Her acting roles in Moesha and Cinderella (1997), the first Black-led Disney adaptation, cemented her stardom. Monica, signed at age 12, released Miss Thang (1995). In addition to her best-selling album The Boy Is Mine (1998), featuring three number-one singles. Both have sold over 40 million records worldwide. With Brandy earning a Grammy for “The Boy Is Mine” and Monica ranking among Billboard’s top R&B artists.

Their tour is a “celebration of growth, sisterhood, and the love our fans have given us,” Brandy said in a statement. Monica echoed, “This tour is a celebration of our history, our impact, and the fans who have grown with us.” Despite past tensions, their 2012 collaboration “It All Belongs to Me” and the Grande remix show their unity. For fans seeking tour details, this reunion fulfills decades of demand for a joint performance.

The Boy Is Mine Tour: A Nostalgic Reunion

Brandy and Monica’s The Boy Is Mine Tour, produced by Black Promoters Collective, begins in Cincinnati and wraps up in Houston on December 7, 2025. The tour celebrates their 1998 hit “The Boy Is Mine,” which topped the Billboard Hot 100 for 13 weeks and remains a defining R&B anthem. The duo’s recent collaboration on Ariana Grande’s 2024 “The Boy Is Mine” remix, which earned a Grammy nomination, has fueled anticipation for their live performances. Special guests include Kelly Rowland, Muni Long, and Jamal Roberts, creating a lineup that spans generations of R&B talent. Yet, the decision to position Rowland as an opening act has overshadowed the tour’s nostalgic appeal for some fans.

Why Fans Are Upset Over Kelly Rowland’s Role

Kelly Rowland’s status as an opening act has sparked heated discussions online. Fans argue that her legacy as a member of Destiny’s Child, one of the best-selling girl groups, and her successful solo career make her a headliner in her own right. Social media posts reflect this sentiment, with comments like, “Kelly Rowland opening for Brandy and Monica? She’s a legend!” and “This feels like a disrespect to Kelly’s catalog.”

While some fans are thrilled to see her perform, others believe her contributions to R&B, including hits like “Dilemma” and “Motivation,” warrant equal billing. For readers searching for updates on the tour, this backlash highlights the high regard fans hold for Rowland’s career.

From Destiny’s Child to Solo Stardom

Kelly Rowland rose to fame in the late 1990s with Destiny’s Child, selling an estimated 60 million records worldwide. During the group’s hiatus, she released her debut solo album, Simply Deep (2002). Which topped the UK Albums Chart and featured the Billboard Hot 100 number-one single “Dilemma” with Nelly. After Destiny’s Child disbanded in 2006, Rowland’s solo career flourished with albums like Ms. Kelly (2007). In addition to Here I Am (2011), and Talk a Good Game (2013). Her dance music ventures, including “When Love Takes Over” with David Guetta, showcased her versatility.

Rowland’s television career includes judging roles on The X Factor UK (2011) and The X Factor USA (2013). In addition to hosting Chasing Destiny (2016), and coaching on The Voice Australia (2017–2020). In 2026, she will join The Voice UK as a coach. With over 40 million records sold as a solo artist, four Grammy Awards, and a Hollywood Walk of Fame star with Destiny’s Child, Rowland’s credentials are undeniable. Her role in forming groups like Little Mix adds to her influence. Making fans’ frustration over her opening act status understandable.

The Opening Act Debate: A Matter of Perspective

While fans are upset, some argue that Rowland’s opening act role doesn’t diminish her status. Tours often feature stacked lineups, and Rowland’s inclusion alongside Muni Long, whose 2024 album Revenge earned critical acclaim, and Jamal Roberts, a rising gospel star, adds depth. Rowland herself expressed excitement on social media, posting, “I am TOO excited about this! Can’t wait to see you all!”. The tour’s structure, with Brandy and Monica as co-headliners, reflects their shared ownership of “The Boy Is Mine.” However fans’ loyalty to Rowland underscores her enduring impact. For readers curious about the controversy, this debate highlights the passion of R&B fandoms.

1990s R&B Nostalgia: A Cultural Resurgence

The Boy Is Mine Tour taps into a broader resurgence of 1990s R&B nostalgia, a trend fueling reunions and tributes. The era, defined by artists like Aaliyah, TLC, and SWV, blended soulful vocals with pop accessibility, shaping modern music. Recent tours by groups like Boyz II Men and New Edition, alongside Verzuz battles like Brandy and Monica’s 2020 showdown, have reignited interest. Ariana Grande’s “The Boy Is Mine” remix, featuring Brandy and Monica. Ultimately, reintroducing their hit to Gen Z. Amplifying its cultural staying power. For fans searching for 1990s R&B content, this tour is a landmark event celebrating the genre’s golden age.

The backlash over Rowland’s role reflects fans’ deep connection to this era. Where Destiny’s Child, Brandy, and Monica were teen stars who became icons. Social media amplifies these sentiments, with posts praising the tour’s lineup but questioning its hierarchy. The tour’s cinematic trailer, directed by Ethan Tobman, and its promise of “vocal brilliance” aim to deliver a nostalgic experience. Nonetheless, Rowland’s fans want her spotlighted equally.

What’s Next for The Boy Is Mine Tour

As tickets go on sale June 27, 2025, via Ticketmaster, with presales starting June 26, with anticipation remains high. The tour’s setlist may include classics like Brandy’s “Have You Ever,” Monica’s “Angel of Mine,” and Rowland’s “Motivation,” alongside their joint hit. Fans hope for collaborative moments, given the artists’ history. While the opening act controversy persists, the tour’s focus on “Black female excellence” and R&B legacy promises a historic experience. For fans eager to celebrate Kelly Rowland’s incredible legacy, this tour is an opportunity to relive iconic music moments.