Kehlani – “Folded”

Kehlani returns with new “Folded” single

Kehlani has officially kicked off 2025 with the release of her highly anticipated single “Folded.” Following a year packed with creativity and acclaim, the Oakland-born R&B artist is proving once again why she remains a central force in contemporary music. “Folded” is a sultry, emotionally resonant track that showcases her growth as a vocalist and storyteller—while offering fans a taste of what’s potentially to come this year.

But this isn’t just another new drop. Kehlani’s timing, consistency, and authentic voice speak to a larger evolution—not only in her career but in the R&B genre itself. Let’s explore how “Folded” fits into Kehlani’s creative trajectory, the impact of her 2024 projects, and why this new release matters.

The Power of Kehlani’s New Music in 2025

“Folded” was announced just a week before its release but was already making waves across social platforms. Fans were buzzing, and anticipation reached a peak by the time the track dropped. The song is now available on major streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Tidal.

So what makes “Folded” special?

The track blends smooth guitar licks with minimalist percussion, allowing Kehlani’s voice to carry the emotional weight. She leans into a reflective, romantic energy, drawing listeners into a lyrical narrative about vulnerability, memory, and longing. The chorus is simple but haunting, with lyrics like:

“It’s so silly of me to act like I don’t need you bad / When all, all I can think about is us since I seen you last.”

This introspection resonates deeply with listeners navigating the complexities of past relationships—making it relatable, timeless, and TikTok-ready.

Breaking Down “Folded”: A Masterclass in R&B Simplicity

“Folded” is produced by a powerhouse lineup including Khris Riddick-Tynes, Andre Harris, Donovan Knight, and Don Mills. These names are familiar to fans of Kehlani, as they’ve all worked with her on previous material. Their combined vision on this track feels restrained yet rich.

Instead of overproduction, “Folded” thrives on minimalism. It builds a mood rather than relying on vocal acrobatics or flashy instrumentals. The result? A soulful groove that lingers.

This is where Kehlani shines—when her voice is given space to breathe.

And in today’s musical landscape, where tracks are often optimized for speed and virality, a song like “Folded” feels refreshingly personal.

2024: A Year of Creative Excellence for Kehlani

To fully appreciate “Folded,” it’s important to look at Kehlani’s output in 2024. Last year saw the release of not one, but two full projects: the Crash album and the While We Wait 2 mixtape.

Crash Album

• Released: June 21, 2024
• Tracks: 13
• Notable Features: Jill Scott, Young Miko, Omah Lay
• Billboard Debut: #25 on the Billboard 200

The Crash album marked a return to more experimental roots. It was a curated journey through genres, moods, and vocal textures, with standout moments coming from her collaborations with Jill Scott and Young Miko. Critics praised the album for its narrative cohesion and its embrace of neo-soul, hip-hop, and alt-R&B elements.

While We Wait 2 Mixtape

• Released: August 28, 2024
• Tracks: 14
• Notable Features: FLO, Lucky Daye, Vince Staples

A spiritual sequel to her 2019 project, While We Wait 2 found Kehlani diving back into the raw, lo-fi energy that made her early work so beloved. It was introspective yet vibey, the perfect soundscape for late-night drives and emotional reflection.

Together, these projects laid the groundwork for what “Folded” represents: a refined and focused version of the artist she’s become.

A Global Presence: Kehlani’s Crash World Tour

Kehlani’s reach is far from regional. As “Folded” garners streams and fan acclaim, she is also captivating live audiences across continents. The Crash World Tour, which began in late 2024 and continues into early 2025, has been a showcase of Kehlani’s evolving performance style.

The tour spans:

• North America
• Europe
• Asia
• Oceania

Fans have described her shows as intimate yet high-energy, with visuals and setlists that reflect the themes of her latest work. It’s not just a concert—it’s an emotional experience.

And with “Folded” now added to her setlist, these performances are only becoming more dynamic.

What Makes Kehlani’s Music Timeless? (Evergreen Appeal)

There’s a reason Kehlani continues to thrive while trends rise and fall. Her music is:

• Emotionally honest
• Rooted in lived experiences
• Musically grounded in R&B traditions
• Influenced by her cultural background and social identity

Her storytelling often touches on universal emotions: heartbreak, growth, self-reflection, healing. “Folded” encapsulates all of that. It’s not tied to a season or event—it’s a song that will sound just as good five years from now.

By leaning into authenticity rather than chasing charts, Kehlani has built a discography that feels relevant and human.

What’s Next for Kehlani After “Folded”?

As of now, there’s no confirmation if “Folded” will appear on a larger project. But the track doesn’t feel like a one-off. It sounds like the beginning of a new chapter.

Possibilities include:

• A deluxe edition of Crash
• A standalone EP
• A new full-length album by the end of 2025

With her tour ongoing and momentum building, there’s no doubt Kehlani has more surprises planned. Her fans—known for their loyalty and passion—are already speculating online about future drops and visual projects.

Why “Folded” Deserves Your Playlist Space Today

If you’ve been waiting for an R&B song that captures emotion without being overly polished, “Folded” is that track.

It works on multiple levels:

• For longtime fans, it’s a return to form.
• For new listeners, it’s a perfect entry point.
• For music lovers, it’s a reminder of what soulful songwriting sounds like in 2025.

In an era where attention spans are short, Kehlani gives us something to sit with, reflect on, and revisit.

Kehlani is Here to Stay

Kehlani’s “Folded” isn’t just a song—it’s a statement. A reminder that despite the noise in the industry, there’s still space for vulnerability, simplicity, and genuine artistry.

Whether it becomes part of a larger body of work or stands alone, “Folded” confirms that Kehlani isn’t slowing down. She’s folding us into her story once more—and the world is ready to listen.