Black Celebrity Men

Talk show host Tavis Smiley is giving R. Kelly a forum to speak his piece in the form of a new tell-all book which says alot considering just a few months ago R. Kelly claimed he barely reads (which means he can barely spell, right?)and that the only reason he even graduated grammar school was because he had a good jump shot. I don't believe it. But, anyway, R. Kelly says he is 'writing this book as Robert, not R. Kelly.' He went on to say, 'I'm tired of being misunderstood. I will show you the tears, fears, and sweat. I will open my heart and reveal the good in my life as well as all the drama.' Well, alright then. Fortunately for us Kelly has sought the services of celebrity author David Ritz, who has penned memoirs for Smokey Robinson, Ray Charles and other soul artist. The book will give readers insight on the death of Kelly's mother Joanne, plus the inspiration behind hits like I Believe I Can Fly, and You Are Not Alone, the latter which he wrote for Michael Jackson's 1995 album HIStory. The 42-year-old divorced father of two will also address the child pornography charges against him that he was later found innocent of in 2008. "I want to tell it like it is," he explained. No word on if he'll delve into the estranged relationship he had with the late Aaliyah. And for some reason, I don't think he will.

Like I said before, the book, which still doesn't have a title, will be distributed by Tavis' publication SmileyBooks. "We are thrilled to be the conduit through which R. Kelly will tell his own story," said Smiley. "He has earned the right to tell his story his own way."

Kelly's autobiography will hits stores in 2011. His ninth album 'Untitled' was released Dec. 3.
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