Kehlani Parrish, born on April 24, 1995, in Oakland, California, has carved a unique niche in the contemporary music scene. Her journey began as the lead singer of the local cover band PopLyfe when she was just a teenager. The group gained national attention after competing on NBC's 'America's Got Talent' in 2011 and finishing fourth. This exposure set the stage for Kehlani’s solo career.
In 2014, she released her first mixtape 'Cloud 19,' which showcased her soulful voice and lyrical depth. It was clear that this young artist had something special—her ability to weave personal experiences into relatable songs resonated with many listeners. Following up with another mixtape titled 'You Should Be Here' in 2015 solidified her place among rising stars; it even earned a Grammy nomination for Best Urban Contemporary Album.
Kehlani’s sound is often described as an eclectic mix of R&B infused with pop sensibilities—a reflection of her diverse influences ranging from hip-hop to soul. Tracks like ‘Gangsta,’ featured on the soundtrack for 'Suicide Squad,' introduced her sound to an even broader audience and climbed onto Billboard charts.
Her debut studio album 'SweetSexySavage' dropped in January 2017 and marked a significant milestone in her career. With hits like ‘Distraction’ and ‘CRZY,’ Kehlani proved she could not only sing but also craft catchy hooks that linger long after listening.
Fast forward to May 2020; she released 'It Was Good Until It Wasn't,' which debuted at number two on the Billboard Hot 200 chart—an impressive feat reflecting both critical acclaim and commercial success. Each project showcases not just musical growth but also emotional vulnerability as she explores themes such as love, heartbreak, identity, and self-care through beautifully layered vocals.
As we look ahead to upcoming releases like 'Next 2 U' slated for early next year alongside singles featuring collaborations with artists such as Ebm Mete—the anticipation continues building around what this multifaceted artist will deliver next.
What makes Kehlani stand out isn’t merely her vocal prowess or songwriting skills; it’s how authentically she shares herself through music while challenging societal norms surrounding gender fluidity and mental health awareness—all wrapped within melodic tunes that invite listeners into intimate conversations about life experiences.