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Sydney Venue Says R Kelly Show Was Never Booked

Neil GriffithsJessica Dale

The promoter has defended the singer's tour.

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Content warning: This news article contains discussion of sexual assault. If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au

The Sydney venue scheduled to host R Kelly's show next year has claimed the concert was never booked, after calls for the US R&B artist's visa to be rejected have already begun following this morning's announcement.

The singer was this morning announced to be playing Rosehill Gardens next February, however a spokesperson for the Australian Turf Club has told The Music that the gig was never confirmed.

ATC told The Music that they were contacted by a third party about Rosehill hosting the concert, however there was no verbal or written commitment by either party. ATC have requested the promoter, Big Music Tour, retract any announcement regarding the venue and R Kelly's tour.

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The 51-year-old singer last year publicly denied allegations of housing six women against their will. He has also previously settled a dozen civil lawsuits out of court that alleged "illegal sexual relationships".

In 2008, he was acquitted on 14 counts of making child pornography.

In May this year, a #MuteRKelly campaign was launched against Kelly through an open letter, signed by the “Women Of Color Within Time’s Up”.

Big Music Tour have defended Kelly's tour in a statement given to The Music today.

“We can confirm we are bringing R. Kelly to Australia. Our focus remains on his incredible music and bringing the show to his Australian and New Zealand fans,” the statement reads

“Mr Kelly was cleared of all allegations and in our view, you are innocent until proven guilty.”

New Zealand's Newshub has today reported that local radio station Flava has withdrawn its support of Kelly's Auckland show following social media backlash. Read the story here.

Kelly is also currently scheduled to perform in Melbourne and Brisbane.

Editor's note: This story was updated at 3.30pm when a representative for the Brisbane Showgrounds informed The Music that the R Kelly was not confirmed to play the venue. This story has been updated again at 4.10pm with confirmation that the Brisbane show is now booked in for the Brisbane Showgrounds.