R Kelly says media is using sexual abuse allegations to destroy his legacy

The singer is 'heartbroken' by the claims

R. Kelly. (Getty)

R. Kelly says the media is trying to "distort and destroy his legacy" with claims that he sexually mistreats women.

In a statement today, the R&B artist singer added that he's "heartbroken" by the accusations.

Kelly dubbed himself "a God-fearing man, a son, a brother, and most importantly a father," saying that the media "has dissected and manipulated these false allegations."

At this point in time, Kelly says he is currently not the subject of any criminal investigations.

He adds that these accusations "perpetuated by the media" are an "attempt to distort my character and to destroy my legacy that I have worked so hard to build."

Last month, the #MuteRKelly campaign was launched, which Time's Up - the organisation dedicated to fighting sexual harassment - voiced support of via the Women of Colour committee.

They issued a statement saying, "For too long, our community has ignored our pain. The pain we bear is a burden that too many women of colour have had to bear for centuries. The wounds run deep. As Women of Colour within Time's Up, we recognise we have a responsibility to help right this wrong. We intend to shine a bright light on our WOC sisters in need."

They added, "We demand appropriate investigations and inquiries into the allegations of R. Kelly's abuse made by women and their families for more than two decades now. And we declare with great vigilance and a united voice to anyone who wants to silence us - their time is up."

In 2008, Kelly was acquitted of child pornography charges in Chicago, but over the past decade claims of sexual misconduct have continued to surface.

More alleged victims have come forward in recent years including a woman who alleged she was in an abusive relationship with Kelly and parents who claimed their daughter was being held hostage by the singer in a sex cult.

Kelly has continued to deny any allegations against him.