New Flame

Chris Brown dropped New Flame as the fifth single from his sixth studio album, X, on June 30, 2014. The track originally appeared in a promotional version back in March featuring only Rick Ross, but the final cut added Usher to create a powerhouse trio of vocal talent. The song blends smooth R&B with a seductive groove that lets Brown showcase his signature style while Ross delivers a laid-back rap and Usher provides silky harmonies. Diplo and DJ Mustard handled production duties, crafting a contemporary sound that fits perfectly within the mood of the X album.

Commercially, the song found its footing on charts around the world, peaking at number 27 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and reaching number 10 on the UK Singles Chart. Critics praised the chemistry between the three artists, noting how the track balanced modern production techniques with timeless R&B sensibilities. It stands out as a fan favorite from Brown's extensive catalog, even though it did not secure specific Grammy nominations as a standalone single.

The official music video directed by Colin Tilley captures the trio performing in a stylized, intimate setting. Released alongside the single, the visual has accumulated hundreds of millions of views across platforms over the years. Streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music keep the track accessible to new listeners who discover the chemistry between the collaborators decades later. [edit]