Charlie Watson
Kevin McCall — the Grammy-nominated producer, singer, and songwriter once behind several of Chris Brown’s biggest early hits — recently had a tearful breakdown on the Back on Figg podcast, revealing that he’s now surviving on food stamps (EBT) despite once topping charts and earning plaques.
“Why Do I Have an EBT Card?”
During the emotional interview, McCall fought back tears as he pulled an EBT card from his wallet, saying:
“Why the f*** do I have an EBT card?”
He explained that his financial hardship and industry burnout had pushed him into a dark place, admitting:
“I wanted to kill myself, bro.”
He clarified later that he wouldn’t act on it, but the comment underscored how deeply his situation has affected him.
The Rift with Chris Brown
McCall has publicly accused Chris Brown of owing him money for multiple songs they collaborated on, including work from Brown’s F.A.M.E. and Fortune eras. During the same interview, he pleaded:
“Can I get $25,000 for them four songs I owe you, bro?”
Their tension reportedly dates back to label disputes in the early 2010s, when McCall was signed under Chris Brown Entertainment via RCA. According to McCall, RCA and management had initially pushed for the two to debut as a group act to launch McCall’s first single, but Brown allegedly refused — leaving McCall without the promotional push he expected.
Despite McCall’s creative contributions to hits like “Deuces” and “Strip,” he claims he’s never been fairly compensated or credited. Over time, their friendship deteriorated into public spats and financial grievances, with McCall accusing Brown of “industry blackballing.”
Young Thug Offers $25,000 in Solidarity
Following McCall’s viral outburst, Young Thug reportedly stepped in to show compassion — offering to pay the $25,000 McCall says he’s owed by Brown. Thug, known for his generosity toward artists in crisis, allegedly told followers he would cover the amount “on behalf of Chris Brown” to help McCall get back on his feet.
Fans praised Thug’s gesture as a rare act of empathy in an industry that often distances itself from vulnerable moments.
A Cry for Respect and Redemption
“I just want what I earned,” McCall said, adding that he’s still hopeful for peace with Chris Brown someday.
McCall’s breakdown was less about fame than validation. Once considered one of R&B’s most promising writer-producers, he’s now fighting for acknowledgment and dignity amid financial hardship. His EBT moment symbolizes not just personal struggle — but how easily creatives can fall through the cracks after contributing to multi-million-dollar hits.
Chris Brown Seemingly Responds
With all the viral commotion and now that Breezy Bowl has officially came to an end, it appears Chris Brown has a little time on his hands. Chris Brown may have seen Kevin McCalls cry for help and cryptically responds. It appears after years of interviews, twitter feuds, and shot been thrown towards Brown by McCall with now a request for cash – isn’t the best combination!
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