With You by Chris Brown

Every New Zealand #1 single…

8

With You

Topped the NZ chart: from 18 February 2008 for 4 weeks

Chris Brown was one of the most successful singles artists on the New Zealand chart during the first decade of the 2000s. He scored five number one singles during the decade. This tally was bested only by Akon, and equalled by the Black Eyed Peas and Eminem.

Brown was particularly successful during the first half of 2008. He topped the New Zealand singles chart between 18 February 2008 and 30 June 2008, except for a single week when Usher’s ‘Love In This Club’ sneaked into the top spot.

Brown has famously sabotaged his career since those heady days. Most infamously, there was a domestic assault case with then-partner Rihanna in February 2009, where Rihanna had visible facial injuries. There have also been restraining orders and public altercations with other stars like Drake and Frank Ocean.

But Brown’s early success was justified. ‘With You’ is a strong single. It’s low-key, driven by an acoustic guitar and giving Brown’s youthful voice room to shine. The song’s main hook, “hearts all over the world tonight” is likeable and memorable. There are nice harmonies in places as well.

It’s hard for a straightforward pop song from 2008 not to sound like a bunch of other songs, but it’s enjoyable nonetheless. He’s also charismatic – his signature dance move, a spin, is entertaining.

Brown clearly didn’t cope with fame well. But he momentarily looked poised to take over the pop world in 2008.

Read more

• NZ #1 hits
• 2000 album reviews