Happy birthday! R. Kelly turns 59 today

By Lori Macatee
Washington
Last updated on January 8, 2026

The iconic and legendary singer turns 59 on Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026.

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R. Kelly is celebrating his 59th birthday today. As a number of online tributes attest, he is one of the most acclaimed singers of his generation.

Popular singer R. Kelly (I Believe I Can Fly, ...) has always liked to keep a bit of himself hidden from view. At 59th birthday, he remains a man of many facets.

Kelly, a cultural icon

Born Robert Sylvester Kelly in Chicago on January 8, 1967, his career spans an arc over many different eras and tastes in American history. Kelly's not just a great singer, he's an inspiration, an icon and a successful business man. At this point in his career, there seems to be little R. hasn't done.

And we've got a feeling the next 12 months are going to be even bigger and better for R. Kelly as he promises more to come. After all, he's only 59.

Happy Birthday, R., you're the best!