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R. Kelly on His Transgender Child: 'There's a Backstory'

The R&B singer has ultimately requested to keep his family affairs private.

While many have expressed their opinions on Jay Kelly identifying as transgender, the teenager's father, R&B star R. Kelly, has remained mum...until now.

During a recent appearance on Chicago radio station WGCI-FM, the "Cookie" crooner was asked about his child's much publicized announcement. His responses, though possibly confusing at certain junctions of the segment, seem to display an air of denial, with his first statement showing the singer in defense mode:

"Well, you don't really want to open this up with saying my daughter is becoming my son," he said.

The radio host explained that she was quoting the several blogs and media outlets that have been covering the story. Kelly responded, "I know, but don't even give the blogs that kind of credit. But as far as that's concerned, always believe what you see — with your own eyes that is. That's the best way to go about this business. I've heard a lot of things about a lot of people, and it was never true." An important note, Jay Kelly, 13, was not outed as transgender via blogs; he came out as trans on his personal Instagram account.

Speaking directly on Jay's identity, Kelly then stated that "there's a backstory" and "that's why you can't judge" anyone.

In concluding the radio segment, the singer made is clear that he wishes to keep his family affairs behind closed doors, linking this decision to that of his longevity in music.

"I don't address that, though," he said. "That's the thing. Why do you think I've been here for 27 years and still relevant? Because I don't address s--t that's dumb. I just don't do it."

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(Photo: Johnny Nunez/Getty Images for GREY GOOSE)

(Photos from Left: Bryan Bedder/Getty Images for Clear Channel, Jay Kelly via Instagram)

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