R. Kelly Defends Justin Bieber: 'He Can Take It' [VIDEO]

R. Kelly has defended recent collaborator Justin Bieber, E! News reported Monday.

The R&B veteran and the teen sensation collaborated on the duet, PYD. The sexually charged song was released on midnight Monday. It peaked on #1 on iTunes. Kelly shared how the collaboration came about to the network.

"I love a few of the songs he did and he loves a few of the songs I did," he said. "We decided we would do things together, sending things back and forth and now it's phenomenal."

He shared how the two once had an impromptu jam session in a hotel room. It was a mutual admiration between the two stars.

"We've known each other for a minute. One time we sat in a hotel playing each other's songs for two hours," he said.

The Ignition singer also spoke about the recent media bruising Bieber has taken. He has been in the news more for his antics such as wild partying than his musical efforts. Kelly believed that the 19-year-old could withstand the challenges.

"He's young with an old soul, so he can take it," Kelly said.

Kelly added that Bieber would triumph over his current circumstances.

"His struggle will determine his success. I ain't worried about him," he said.

Watch the video of Kelly speaking about Bieber here.