Kehlani’s journey to fame began at a young age, thanks to the influence of her aunt and the exposure to R&B and neo-soul music. Growing up, Kehlani listened to iconic artists such as Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, and Jill Scott, who inspired her with their soulful sounds and powerful lyrics.
As she delved deeper into her love for music, Kehlani discovered her own singing potential. She realized that she had a unique voice and a passion for expressing herself through song. This realization sparked a desire within her to pursue a career in music.
At just 14 years old, Kehlani’s talent caught the attention of a pop cover band called Poplyfe. She was recruited as a vocalist for the group, and her journey in the music industry officially began. Poplyfe’s music was produced by the former Tony! Toni! Toné!, adding another layer of credibility to Kehlani’s early career.
Being a part of Poplyfe provided Kehlani with a platform to showcase her vocal abilities and stage presence. The band performed cover songs, allowing Kehlani to experiment with different genres and styles of music. This experience helped her develop her skills as a performer and gain exposure to a wider audience.
However, it was Kehlani’s decision to leave Poplyfe and pursue a solo career that truly set her on the path to fame. After leaving the band, she began releasing music independently, showcasing her own unique sound and style. Kehlani’s soulful voice, combined with her honest and relatable lyrics, resonated with listeners and garnered attention in the music industry.
Kehlani’s breakthrough moment came in 2014 when she released her critically acclaimed mixtape, “Cloud 19.” The mixtape showcased her talent as a singer-songwriter and received high praise from both fans and music critics. This project helped solidify her place as an up-and-coming artist to watch.
Following the success of “Cloud 19,” Kehlani continued to release music independently, building a loyal fan base and gaining recognition for her soulful R&B sound. Her authenticity and vulnerability in her music resonated with listeners, and she quickly became known for her ability to connect with her audience on a deep level.
In 2015, Kehlani signed with Atlantic Records, a major record label, further propelling her career to new heights. With the support and resources of a major label behind her, Kehlani was able to reach a wider audience and expand her reach in the music industry.
Since then, Kehlani has released several successful projects, including her debut studio album “SweetSexySavage” in 2017 and the mixtape “While We Wait” in 2019. She has collaborated with prominent artists such as Cardi B, Ty Dolla Sign, and Justin Bieber, further cementing her status as a rising star in the music industry.
In addition to her musical talent, Kehlani’s personal journey and openness about her life experiences have also contributed to her fame. She has been vocal about her struggles with mental health, sexuality, and relationships, allowing her fans to connect with her on a deeper level. Her honesty and vulnerability have made her a relatable figure in the music industry, and she has become an inspiration to many.
Kehlani’s path to fame can be attributed to her undeniable talent, early exposure to influential artists, her time with Poplyfe, her independent music releases, and her ability to connect with her audience through her authentic and relatable music. Her journey serves as a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and staying true to oneself in the pursuit of success in the music industry.