The “Folded” hitmaker’s upcoming LP is nearing completion, meaning fans won’t have to wait much longer to learn who made the final cut.
Key Takeaways:
- Kehlani’s next album represents a bold sonic evolution and is expected to feature more collaborators than any of her previous projects.
- Confirmed guests include Usher and Brandy, with possible appearances from Ne-Yo, Tank, and Jermaine Dupri.
- Executive produced by Khris Riddick-Tynes, the album is slated for a spring release.
Anticipation for Kehlani’s next album continues to build, and the Oakland native (who uses she/they pronouns) recently revealed that the project will be her most collaborative effort to date. Speaking with Inked on Wednesday (Jan. 7), Kehlani offered new insight into what fans can expect when the album drops this spring.
“I have more collaborations than I’ve probably ever had, and they’re all people I deeply respect,” Kehlani shared. “What makes it special is that nothing feels forced—there’s no ‘label pairing’ energy or trend-chasing. Everything came together naturally.”
They continued, “Everyone involved genuinely loves the music we’re creating. I have people on this project that I truly admire and look up to, which makes it even more exciting.” While Kehlani kept most of the guest list under wraps, Usher and Brandy have already been confirmed.
Last month, the “Out The Window” singer also told Rolling Stone she’s been in the studio with Tank, Ne-Yo, Jermaine Dupri, and Bryan-Michael Cox—though it remains to be seen which collaborations will appear on the final tracklist. Longtime collaborator Khris Riddick-Tynes, who produced “Folded,” is serving as executive producer for the full project.
Even better news for fans: Kehlani revealed to Inked that the album is “almost finished,” suggesting that a tracklist and artwork reveal could be coming soon.
Adding to the momentum, “Folded” is nominated in two categories at the 2026 Grammy Awards. For Best R&B Song, it will compete against Summer Walker’s “Heart Of A Woman,” Chris Brown’s “It Depends,” Durand Bernarr’s “Overqualified,” and Leon Thomas’ “YES IT IS.”
In Best R&B Performance, Kehlani faces off once again with Walker and Brown, alongside Justin Bieber’s “YUKON” and Leon Thomas’ “MUTT (Live From NPR’s Tiny Desk).” The winners will be announced Feb. 1, when the Grammys air live on CBS from Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena.
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