Kehlani Stuns Grammys 2026: ‘Folded’ Wins Best R&B Performance & New Album Tease

Oakland-born R&B star Kehlani is gearing up for a monumental 2026. During a recent interview the singer-songwriter confirmed that her upcoming studio album—expected this spring—will feature “way more collaborations” than any project she’s released to date. Industry buzz already circles confirmed guest spots from legendary voices Usher and Brandy, with studio sessions reportedly including Ne-Yo, Tank, Jermaine Dupri and hit-maker Bryan-Michael Cox. Executive production is being handled by Khris Riddick-Tynes, the creative force behind Kehlani’s 2025 breakthrough single “Folded,” which has now earned Grammy nods for both Best R&B Song and Best R&B Performance ahead of the February ceremony. Kehlani emphasized that every feature came together organically rather than through label matchmaking: “There’s no features that feel like, ‘Two people were popping so we just threw it together.’” That focus on authenticity suggests the forthcoming LP will blend Kehlani’s signature emotive vocals with diverse textures from each collaborator, widening her sonic palette while remaining rooted in soulful storytelling. Beyond the studio, Kehlani’s momentum is surging. “Folded” continues to gain traction across streaming platforms, and anticipation for the spring release has sparked a spike in searches for tour information, merchandise drops and exclusive vinyl pressings. Marketers predict the album rollout will leverage Kehlani’s 19 million-plus Instagram followers and her highly engaged TikTok fanbase with behind-the-scenes snippets, choreography challenges and intimate live-stream Q&As. For R&B aficionados, the album’s arrival could mark a cultural moment similar to Kehlani’s 2017 debut SweetSexySavage—only now amplified by nearly a decade of artistic growth and high-profile collaborators. With Grammys buzz, a stacked feature list and a release window that positions her for summer festival circuits, Kehlani is poised to headline playlists and stages alike in 2026. Stay tuned for the official tracklist, artwork reveal and preorder links in the coming weeks, and expect tour dates to follow shortly after the album’s drop. If “Folded” is any indication, Kehlani’s next era is set to elevate R&B—and her own career trajectory—to compelling new heights.