"Black Panther" actor Denzel Whitaker isn't the least bit shocked white R&B singers are thriving more than their black counterparts -- 'cause Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry.
We got Denzel leaving Chateau Marmont Wednesday night, and got his take on Eric Benet's theory ... that black R&B singers aren't getting the same shine.
It immediately reminded Denzel of Berry's situation. He thinks the record biz took the easiest route to the most dollars -- aka capitalism -- and that's the only reason Chuck isn't The King.
Bottom line is, he agrees with Benet --- it's happening all over again.