Brian McKnight explains why he wrote X-rated song

(CBS News) Brian McKnight has probably never experienced as much publicity as he has this week.

The Grammy-winning R&B singer isn't the first person who comes to mind when you think of an "adult mix tape." Best known for such sentimental love songs as "Back at One," McKnight released a YouTube preview of his new song, "If You're Ready to Learn," featuring explicit and sexually-charged lyrics.

In introducing the track, McKnight says, "Most people only want to hear me do one kind of song, but there's been lots of conversations I've had with men, lots of conversations I've had with women, just about other 'sexual type things' that I'd like to tackle."

And tackle it he did.

Shortly after posting the video, McKnight started trending on Twitter. But the reaction wasn't all positive. Some fans loved it, while others criticized the overt sexual nature of the lyrics.

In an interview with TMZ, McKnight explained why he recorded it.

"I've been home for a month ... I've got this boot on my foot," he said. "I'm like a month away from Achilles tendon surgery, so I've been stuck in the house."

McKnight acknowledged the song isn't for everyone, adding, "It's a parody. I'm having fun because basically I have nothing else to do."

With all the hype surrounding the track, McKnight plans to record an official version of the song at his home studio.

Watch the video here, but be warned that the lyrics are explicit.

Tell us: What do you think about Brian McKnight's song?