R. Kelly was acquitted on all 14 counts of child pornography today. The trial was doomed from the start. The prosecution's lead witnesses lacked credibility, the defense had over 6 years to prepare their case, the alleged victim in the tape claimed that wasn't her and refused to testify, and most importantly the video lacked sufficient proof that the man seen in the tape was indeed R. Kelly. The self proclaimed King of R&B walked out the court room with a smile and swagger that not even Michael Jackson after his child molestation trial could imitate.

I remember seeing the sex tape when I was 16 (2002). The tape featured different females in multiple sex scenes that were very graphic to say the least. Everything from the urination scene, to the computer chair scene was enough to taint my mind for years to come. It was apparent one of the females in the video was indeed a minor. Not only were her mannerisms questionable, but at times she appeared to be very uncomfortable - almost as if she didn't want to be there.

Do I think it was R Kelly in the tape? Definitely. Do I think he should be convicted of a crime? No! People have to understand, you can't convict someone when the alleged victim won't even cooperate with the prosecution. If she says that's not her in the tape, then you have to respect her decision as an adult.

Natalie Moore from Chicago Public Radio (WBEZ 91.5 FM) has been doing a great job reporting R. Kelly's trial in vivid detail. Unlike most media reports, she's actually granted access to the courtroom during the entire trial. Over the pass several weeks I've been addicted to her blog. Besides her great journalism, she seems to be pretty down to Earth. In addition to spectating her blog and listening to her daily reports on the radio - I've managed to communicate with her on several key issues about the trial. I told her I think it would be insane if she didn't do a book about the trial. Nothings more exciting than an inside scoop. Thanks Natalie!

I hope this is R. Kelly's last time in a similar situation. Remember this is the same guy that married Aaliyah at the tender age of 16. Kelly has also settled several cases out of court including a settlement in 1998 with someone I know personally who alleged that Kelly had sex with her at the age of 17. The settlement was in the mid 6 figures, and also prohibits this woman from ever mentioning the case again. With a history like this it's amazing he got off scott free. With his personal history aside - R Kelly is one of the greatest musicians of my time. His music is timeless, and I can personally say he performs like no other entertainer. People forget this is the same man that has wrote music for Michael Jackson, Celine Dion, Syleena Johnson, Isley Brothers (Mr. Biggs), and B2KGay just to name a few. Without R. Kelly, R&B just isn't the same. As bittersweet as the jury's decision is, I'm glad he's a free man.

Not only am I behind R. Kelly, but Chicago seems to be behind R. Kelly as well. Within minutes of the jury's decision my phone rang from numerous people all over the city. People were celebrating his freedom as if it were theres. I'm almost positive this weekend if not tonight R. Kelly will be in downtown Chicago partying like it's 1999........as he should. And what better day to celebrate, than Friday the 13th (ooooh the irony).

Final Thoughts: People always say "money isn't everything." Well look at this trial for example. Here is a man that was clearly seen in the tape having sex with an underage girl. However, because of his money and resources he was not only able to prolong the trial for 6 years, but somehow afforded a legal team that could persuade the jury. If that were the average Joe, he'd be convicted and already sentenced years ago. So to bring this to a close, money might not bring happiness.....but it damn sure bought freedom.