Kehlani is setting the tone for her next chapter with help from Missy Elliott.
The Grammy-winning R&B star has released her new single "Back and Forth," featuring Missy Elliott, as the final preview of her upcoming self-titled album KEHLANI, arriving April 24. The track blends Kehlani's signature emotional depth with Missy Elliott's playful, boundary-pushing presence, creating a collaboration that bridges generations of R&B. It's a pairing that feels both natural and intentional, as Kehlani continues to evolve while honoring the artists who paved the way.
Missy's appearance doesn't just bring star power; it also adds a layer of nostalgia. In her verse, she includes a subtle nod to the late Aaliyah, a meaningful reference given their long-standing creative history. Missy famously played a key role in shaping Aaliyah's sound early in her career, making the shout-out feel like a full-circle moment within the genre.
The single arrives as anticipation builds for KEHLANI, which is being positioned as one of the singer's most personal releases yet. Described as "an intimate and fearless body of work" in a press release, the album reflects her current mindset that's rooted in clarity, confidence, and creative freedom.
A self-titled project often signals a defining statement, and Kehlani appears to be leaning fully into that idea, delivering music that captures her at her most honest.
The rollout follows a major run for Kehlani, whose 2025 hit "Folded" dominated across platforms, earning massive streaming numbers and strong chart performance, including a Top 10 showing on the Billboard Hot 100.
