ATLANTA — Claims from B2K signer DeMario “Raz-B” Thorton about personal safety has shook up the band’s highly anticipated reunion tour, less than a week after the R&B group hit the road.
In a cell phone video posted online, Thorton vented about safety concerns that prompted him to quit the group.
“So guess what? Raz-B is off the tour. Good luck to everybody. No disrespect to Omari because he’s my brother. Omari, if you come talk to me and you want me to do this tour, I’ll do this tour. But I’m officially off the tour, K," Thorton said.
“I guess we’re about to film the new ‘Surviving Chris Stokes,’ Thorton said in a video recording while tagging Lifetime television, which produced the docuseries on sex abuse surrounding R & B singer R. Kelly. “Guess what… I’m ready to talk. Call Lifetime.”
PHOTOS: B2K
Chris Stokes, the band’s manager, has been at the center of sex abuse claims since the group parted ways in 2013. Back in January, he responded to claims after clips of Raz-B alleging foul play resurfaced following the announcement of the Millennium Tour.
“Negativity I will never play into. I never hurt any of B2K & Always had their best interest at heart including financially. I forgive any negative energy or tweets! God forgives and so do I. They back! Now stay positive in 2019 & Go get your tix! Enjoy them being back! Much love,” Stokes said in a Tweet earlier this year.
It appears that things smoothed over internally because Thorton shared that he is back with the band, according to his social media.
“I am a work in progress. I appreciate the outpouring love, empathy, and understanding from my supporters. I look forward to continuing the Millennium Tour for our fans. You deserve it, “Thornton said in statement via Instagram story.
Fans of the group are sharing their thoughts and confusion about the matter on Twitter.
B2K had big hits in the late 90s and early 2000s with popular songs like "Bump Bump Bump" and "Girlfriend." Even after the group's success, some of them continued to make music with their own solo hits.
The group is set to perform at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on April 4 and April 5.
Joining B2K on the Millennium Tour are stars Mario, Pretty Ricky, Lloyd, Bobby V, Ying Yang Twins, and Chingy.
