Jermaine Dupri Says Chris Brown Collab Could Rival Thriller, But Might Upset Usher
Jermaine Dupri Says He Could Create a “Thriller”-Level Album With Chris Brown — But Wonders If It Would Upset Usher
Legendary producer Jermaine Dupri recently revealed that he believes a collaboration with Chris Brown could result in a Michael Jackson–level masterpiece. However, he admitted such a project might spark tension with longtime collaborator Usher.
During an appearance on The Joe Budden Podcast, Dupri was asked about the possibility of teaming up with Brown in the studio. His response suggested that the outcome could be game-changing.
“It’s dangerous at this point. I don’t go in the studio thinking, ‘let me hold this one or keep this,’” Dupri explained. “I might mess around and go to the studio with CB and make a Thriller. Usher would hate me for the rest of my life.”
Dupri’s comments point to the fact that he played a pivotal role in Usher’s career, particularly with the creation of the diamond-certified 2004 classic Confessions, often referred to as Usher’s “Thriller moment.”
Despite acknowledging the potential awkwardness, Dupri made it clear that he’s open to working with Brown again.
“I would love to work with Chris Brown. I have worked with Chris Brown before,” he said confidently. “You ain’t gotta tell me what’s gonna happen. I know what’s gonna happen.”
https://t.co/uuaoRW2UN2 https://t.co/m0CJm6AbNK
— Caleb (@CalebFromX) August 19, 2025
Usher has spoken about his adoration for Chris Brown and possibly working together.
If me & CB ever did a [versus] it would be one of the biggest things anyone has ever experienced in entertainment… I love Chris Brown & I Love his music. He’s always been there for me
Usher speaking on Chris Brown:
“If me & CB ever did a [versus] it would be one of the biggest things anyone has ever experienced in entertainment… I love Chris Brown & I Love his music. He’s always been there for me” – Usher
Some ppl took JD’s comments as them having beef… https://t.co/ToSyCugS3N pic.twitter.com/1hYPyR1XrN
— Caleb (@CalebFromX) August 19, 2025
The comparison between Usher and Chris Brown has long been debated among R&B fans, with both artists praised for their vocals, dancing, and overall stage presence. Earlier this year, Bobby Brown weighed in on the discussion, giving the edge to Chris Brown when it comes to being the closest entertainer to Michael Jackson.
“I would go with Chris Brown,” Bobby said. “Chris is a dancer, singer, and great entertainer. He does the ultimate stuff on stage. Usher is also a great entertainer, but I’ve gotta go with Chris for being as close to Michael as anybody could ever get.”
The debate between the two stars also made headlines in 2023 when reports surfaced of a physical altercation between Usher and Chris Brown during Brown’s 34th birthday party. However, the incident didn’t prevent them from sharing the stage just hours later at the Lovers & Friends Festival, showing that their professional relationship remains intact.
ONLINE REACTIONS
The conversation has social media discussing if it is even possible to create a “Thriller” in this day and age. Teddy Riley who has worked with Michael Jackson has let Chris Brown know that he has a missile ready to launch for Chris Brown.
The legendary pioneer/producer of New Jack Swing:
Teddy Riley said he has a “missile” hit for Chris Brown.
We definitely need: Chris Brown x Teddy Riley x Jermaine Durpi pic.twitter.com/64xBYLhHLv
— Latrell Phillips (@TrizzeTrell) August 19, 2025
oop pic.twitter.com/u39NvtyGdU
— Me. I am Evan…The Elusive Chanteur (@bardicarey) August 19, 2025
In what world is CB writing a Beat It, Wanna Be Startin Somethin or Billie Jean lmaoooo
— tabloid junkie 🇵🇸 (@theplacehotelly) August 19, 2025
According to his fans CB got legendary and classic albums…. Ya'll stans are delusional 😁😁😁😁😁
— K Sean Maphumulo (@Sean44631279) August 19, 2025
According to Usher fans they go deaf when you ask them to name a solo Usher song the past decade….
— G2themax (@G2themax100) August 19, 2025
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