R. Kelly Released: February 18, 2003 (U.S.) Recorded: 2002 Studio: Rockland Studios, Chicago; Can-Am Studios, Miami Label: Jive Records Producers: R. Kelly (primary) 1. Background & Context Chocolate Factory was R. Kelly’s fifth studio album and his first full-length release following the highly publicized and controversial child pornography charges filed against him in June 2002. The album was recorded while Kelly was out on bail, and its release was seen by many as a defiant return to his core musical identity—sensual R&B and hip-hop soul—amid legal turmoil.