R. Kelly helped his former teacher save her home by staging a special concert to boost funds for her, after he found out that his mentor was on the verge of losing her house.

The R&B superstar returned to his hometown Chicago, Illinois last week and performed in Lena MCLin's honour, who he credits the most for inspiring him to pursue his dream.

Talking about the Chicago Public School teacher and vocal coach Lena McLin, the three time Grammy Award winner revealed that his former teacher had already discovered his talent on the first day they met.

"On the first day I met her, Ms. McLin told me, 'You're going to be one of the greatest singers, songwriters and performers of all time.' I thought the lady was crazy," R. Kelly recalled to Chicago Sun- Times.

"Ms. McLin reached down in me and pulled out something greater than me," the 48 year old R&B star said. He further revealed that the music teacher taught him different music genres and left him with inspiring words, "You are music. You're not in any one category. Anything you attempt, you'll be able to tap into the spirit of it, and that's the gift you have.' She made me."

Kelly has actually lived up to his mentor's expectations. He has been nominated 25 times and named among the best selling music artists of all time.

To show his gratitude and appreciation for his success, R. Kelly scheduled his tour dates around the show at the Chicago Theatre for a benefit concert to raise funds. He wants to help his former teacher, who is now 87 years old and retired.

The benefit concert started after R. Kelly found out that the retired teacher is currently fighting to keep her long time apartment at 69th and Oglesby as she could no longer afford the monthly dues with her pension.