Kehlani was the center of attention via social media at one point for all the wrong reasons. Pictures of her in bed with her ex leaked, a bad break up and hospitalized for a suicide attempt all at the same time. Wow. I think I speak for anyone when I say I love to see a comeback. Soon after all of the incidents, she deleted her social media, cut off her hair and emerged a brand new Kehlani, the sweet, sexy, savage. Often women make changes to their hair following bad relationships or situations as a sign for the birth of a new person and a new beginning. But, the artist explains in an Instagram post that she cut her hair off to get in touch more with her masculine side. So why was her new album so sweet and sexy? Don’t forget savage—which is not a word normally associated with women. She simply wants to share her feelings to the world and how she is a combination of all three adjectives.
Kehlani defies, twists and bends all stereotypes giving to the female in this industry. SweetSexySavage begins with an intro consisting of poetry recited by poet Reyna Biddy. Throughout the album, it is no secret that Kehlani is no longer afraid of herself. She accepts her flaws and imperfections head on, “The truth is I’m a superwoman, and some days I’m an angry woman and some days I’m a crazy woman.” The album takes us on a journey through her life. Her weaknesses, her strengths, her love life were all discussed in sweet sultry R&B, and I might add she threw a little rap in the equation as well with the song, “Too Much”.
Ever since Kehlani’s debut, she was always considered a little “different”. Her tattoo covered body, tomboyish outfits and six pack made her a shocking sight to see in the world of R&B. Despite her rebellious, edgy look, Kehlani is beginning to move up the charts gracefully.
SweetSexySavage combines the sassy upbeat tempos found in today’s music but also the smooth 90’s R&B that makes this album irresistible. From the intro to the very last song, “I Wanna Be” makes you feel more appreciative for what you have to offer. Vulnerability to confidence the evolution of Kehlani becomes your own. I will be shocked if this album does not top the charts. I thank Kehlani for her boldness to be who she is no matter what the world thinks. It is people like her who break barriers for other women to shine. Take some time to listen to this album ladies and find your inner strength. After all, who says women can’t be savages too.