At 63, legendary R&B singer Keith Sweat has finally spoken out about the persistent rumors and controversies that have followed him throughout his career.

Known for his smooth voice and timeless hits like “Nobody” and “Make It Last Forever,” Sweat’s journey from Harlem to stardom has been anything but ordinary.

Born in 1961 in Harlem, New York, Keith Sweat faced hardships early on. After his father died when Keith was just twelve, his mother raised him and his siblings alone.

Despite financial struggles, Sweat was drawn to music, performing at the Apollo Theater as a child and later joining the local band Jamila. He balanced odd jobs and college, earning a communications degree before pursuing music full-time.

Sweat’s big break came in the mid-1980s when he went solo, recording songs that caught the attention of the industry. With his unique blend of new jack swing and soulful ballads, he quickly rose to fame, becoming one of the most influential R&B artists of his generation.

However, with fame came rumors. One of the most persistent was speculation about his sexuality, with some alleging he was gay and used relationships with women as a cover.

Sweat, who has always kept his private life out of the spotlight, finally addressed these rumors by sharing personal anecdotes about his relationships with women and his fondness for playing his own music during intimate moments. He laughed off the rumors, making it clear that he has always been interested in women.

Sweat’s love life has also been a topic of public interest, especially his marriage to Lisa Wu. Their divorce led to a highly publicized custody battle over their two sons.

In a rare outcome, Sweat was awarded full custody, with the court citing his ability to provide stability. He also refused to allow his children to appear on Wu’s reality show, prioritizing their privacy.

Financial troubles also plagued Sweat in the 2000s, including a home foreclosure and lawsuits related to unpaid debts and disputes over music credits.

Despite these setbacks, he remained focused on his music, writing and producing his own tracks and collaborating with industry legends like Teddy Riley, Johnny Gill, and Gerald Levert.

Sweat continued to make headlines in 2021 during his Verzuz battle with Bobby Brown, where his lively performance and on-stage antics sparked jokes about his partying. Yet, fans celebrated the event as a nostalgic reunion of R&B icons.

Another notable controversy was his public dispute with younger artist Jacquees, who claimed the title “King of R&B.” Sweat, confident in his legacy, responded graciously, leading to a respectful resolution between the two.

Through all the ups and downs, Keith Sweat has proven himself as a resilient artist and businessman. He’s weathered rumors, financial struggles, and industry drama, all while staying true to his passion for music.

By finally addressing the rumors and sharing his truth, Sweat reaffirms his place as an R&B legend, beloved by fans across generations.