Kehlani, California Artist, Age, Real Name, Height & Bio

Artist Age: 29 (April 24, 1995)
Stage name: Kehlani
Birth name: Kehlani Ashley Parrish
Height: 5′4″ (163 cm)
Place of birth: Oakland, California, U.S.
Instagram: @kehlani

Early Life and Artistic Roots

Kehlani was born and raised in Oakland, California, a city known for its vibrant creative scene and social activism. Her upbringing was shaped by early hardships—her father died when she was a toddler, and her mother was in and out of prison. Raised by her aunt, Kehlani turned to performance as an outlet for expression.

Originally trained as a dancer, she attended the Oakland School for the Arts, where she shifted toward singing after a leg injury. Influenced by Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, and Michael Jackson, she began blending soulful tones with modern R&B.

Kehlani Age 16: America’s Got Talent and Poplyfe

At age 16, Kehlani gained national attention as the lead singer of Poplyfe, a teen pop band that made it to the finals of America’s Got Talent in 2011. While the group placed fourth, Kehlani’s unique voice and stage presence stood out.

After the show, she faced a period of instability—at one point homeless—but she continued writing and working on music. These formative years shaped the emotional depth and raw honesty that would later define her solo work.

First Mixtape and Independent Buzz

In 2014, Kehlani released her first solo mixtape, Cloud 19, at age 19. The project earned critical acclaim and showcased her ability to deliver smooth vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and mature songwriting. The mixtape helped her build a loyal fanbase online and attracted attention from major industry players.

She followed it up with You Should Be Here in 2015, which debuted at No. 5 on the R&B/Hip-Hop charts. The success earned her a Grammy nomination and solidified her as one of R&B’s rising voices.

Kehlani Age 21: Mainstream Breakthrough

At age 21, Kehlani’s career reached new heights. She collaborated with artists like G-Eazy, Zayn, and Chance the Rapper, and her style—a mix of alternative R&B, pop, and neo-soul—began reaching wider audiences.

She also signed a deal with Atlantic Records, setting the stage for her major-label debut. Despite the success, Kehlani remained vocal about her mental health, using her platform to discuss topics like depression, self-worth, and healing.

SweetSexySavage and Rising Fame

In 2017, Kehlani dropped her debut studio album SweetSexySavage, which debuted in the top 3 on the Billboard 200. The album was an energetic blend of empowerment anthems and emotional ballads. Songs like “CRZY,” “Distraction,” and “Gangsta” showcased her dynamic range and hitmaking potential.

The release marked a pivotal point in her career. At age 22, she proved she could maintain creative control while achieving commercial success.

Motherhood and Personal Growth

In 2019, Kehlani gave birth to her daughter, Adeya, and described motherhood as a transformative experience. At age 24, she embraced a new sense of balance between career and personal life.

Her music shifted to reflect themes of unconditional love, stability, and maturity. She also became more involved in advocacy, supporting LGBTQ+ rights, Black Lives Matter, and mental health awareness.

Kehlani, who identifies as queer and non-binary (using she/they pronouns), became a prominent voice in inclusive representation in music.

It Was Good Until It Wasn’t and Artistic Depth

In 2020, Kehlani released her second album, It Was Good Until It Wasn’t. The album debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and featured deeper, moodier production with introspective lyrics. Tracks like “Toxic” and “Can I” explored themes of love, boundaries, and emotional healing.

The project was praised for its vulnerability and consistency. At age 25, Kehlani had evolved into a refined storyteller, unafraid to bare her truth.

Blue Water Road and Continued Evolution

Kehlani followed up with Blue Water Road in 2022, showcasing a more ethereal, spiritual sound. The album leaned into lush production, poetic lyrics, and self-awareness. It marked a more peaceful, confident chapter in her journey.

The project highlighted her artistic evolution, where music became more than just expression—it became a tool for reflection, connection, and healing.

Career Timeline by Age

Final Thoughts on Kehlani Age and Legacy

So how old is Kehlani? She’s 29 (April 24, 1995), and her journey through heartbreak, healing, and self-discovery has made her a force in R&B. She blends vulnerability with strength, pairing soulful vocals with empowering narratives.

Kehlani age 29 reflects an artist in full bloom—seasoned, still evolving, and deeply connected to her message. With each project, she offers more than music—she offers truth, hope, and community.

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