Kehlani is a Grammy-winning singer and songwriter who has become a leading voice in contemporary R&B, celebrated for their raw vulnerability and genre-blending sound. Originally from Oakland, California, Kehlani rose to prominence through the mixtape Cloud 19 and the critically acclaimed You Should Be Here, the latter of which earned them their first Grammy nomination. Over the years, they have cultivated a reputation for deeply personal storytelling that touches on themes of love, queer identity, and mental health, establishing a loyal global fanbase.

The past year has marked a definitive peak in Kehlani’s career, highlighted by the massive success of the single “Folded.” The track became their first solo top-ten hit on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned them two Grammy Awards in early 2026 for Best R&B Performance and Best R&B Song. Building on this momentum, Kehlani was honored with the Impact Award at the 2026 Billboard Women in Music event, recognizing their contributions to the evolution of the genre.

Most recently, Kehlani released their self-titled fifth studio album on April 24, 2026—coinciding with their 31st birthday. The project is their most collaborative to date, featuring a star-studded lineup including Missy Elliott, Usher, Brandy, and Lil Wayne. Described as a “historical personal moment,” the album serves as a definitive mission statement for an artist who continues to bridge the gap between classic R&B influences and a modern, singular vision.