Kehlani Honors R&B’s Greatness With Triumphant Self-Titled Masterpiece

Kehlani is ready to make R&B groundbreaking again. A longtime student and fierce champion of the genre since she sang her first notes, the 30-year-old artist flaunts her range—vocally, lyrically, and emotionally—on her self-titled masterpiece.

She also uses the album as a vehicle for her own growth in life and love. “You’re about to hear a heart that’s been stretched, healed, and reborn,” she says on the intro. “A voice stepping into its truth with no fear, no filter, and no apologies. I am Kehlani.”

No matter your attachment style, listeners will latch onto Kehlani for its nostalgic references, impressive vocal arrangements, pitch-perfect collaborations, and refreshing perspectives on relationships. Below is a track-by-track breakdown of Kehlani’s ninth studio effort, her most triumphant yet.

Anotha Luva (Feat. Lil Wayne)

Kehlani delivers an opener that merges R&B’s classic and contemporary elements: high-pitched vocals, a sticky hook, and a rap feature. Special guest Lil Wayne sparks a lighter before lighting up the track with his wordplay and an iconic C-Murder reference. The stage is set for the thrills and feels that await.

No Such Thing (Feat. Clipse)

When Kehlani teased this snippet on Instagram ahead of the album’s release, R&B heads instantly clocked hints of Mya’s “Fallen” by way of The Pharcyde’s “Runnin’.” Hip-hop duo Clipse also contributes to this honeymoon-worthy love note with visions of baecations and the soft life. Key takeaway: Tapping into that four-letter word is never too much, like Luther said.

Folded

This two-time Grammy-winning smash has been sung from the laundromat to algorithms around the world. From the pristine production to the runs and riffs, Kehlani puts on a masterclass of technical songbuilding and lyrical storytelling.

I Need You (Feat. Brandy)

The yearning is strong with this one as Kehlani and Brandy make the perfect pairing on wax. Hat tip to the production legends Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, who add to the track’s timeless appeal.

Oooh

Neighbors be damned, this sexy-time romp requires a body party for two. Kehlani has never been bashful about her sexuality or bedroom behavior, and no project of hers would be complete without a steamy number for the after-hours playlist.

Back and Forth (Feat. Missy Elliott)

Boundaries get packaged into a bop co-starring Misdemeanor, who adds her signature swag to this girls-night-out-ready groove that calls to mind the late, great Aaliyah.

Shoulda Never (Feat. Usher)

Put Usher in the booth and Babyface on the boards for an elite R&B composition. Kehlani and Ursha Baby go round-for-round and even rap-sing about a hookup gone bad.

Call Me Back (Feat. Lil Jon)

Snap ya fingers and do ya step for this partystarter paying tribute to Crunk&B that also spotlights T-Pain and Lil Jon’s undeniable influence on R&B. Yeah!

Pocket (Feat. Cardi B)

Atlantic Records labelmates Kehlani and Cardi B reunite for this come-hither collaboration that gives 69 new uses for the word “pocket,” give or take.

Lights On (Feat. Big Sean)

With Jermaine Dupri on the beat and Big Sean on rap duty, Kehlani offers another brilliant bedroom heater. Forward the bill to your electricity provider.

Sweet Nuthins (Feat. Leon Thomas)

Kehlani and fellow Grammy winner Leon Thomas find their sweet spot on this smooth track about making love to make up for the wrong.

Unlearn

Kehlani closes the album with her most vulnerable entry, featuring a piano-driven melody, a call-and-response, and a mature POV on healing in love. She puts her realness forward as she sings this romantic vow that could also double as a life mission statement: “I got a lot to unlearn about me, but I’ll do the work if you still believe.”