Kehlani performs “Folded” on “Jimmy Kimmel Live” [VIDEO]
Kehlani delivers “Folded” performance on “Jimmy Kimmel Live”
For Kehlani, this week feels like a defining chapter in her story. Her single “Folded” has officially reached the Top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100, landing at No. 7 — a first in her solo career. That’s not just a chart position; it’s a breakthrough that represents nearly a decade of work, artistry, and evolution.
Adding to the excitement, Kehlani took the stage on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Monday night to deliver a breathtaking live performance of Folded. The appearance instantly became a trending moment across social media, blending intimacy, emotion, and showmanship in a way only Kehlani can.
The success of Folded didn’t happen overnight. It’s been building steadily through organic streaming, word-of-mouth, and her recent remix collection — the “Folded (Homage Pack)”, which features R&B legends Toni Braxton, Brandy, JoJo, Mario, Ne-Yo, and Tank. Together, these moments showcase how an artist rooted in honesty and craft can still rise to the top in today’s fast-moving digital music landscape.
How “Folded” Rose to the Top
A Song with Heart and Healing
Released on June 11, 2025, Folded captures what makes Kehlani such a powerful storyteller. The song is tender and introspective — built around soft guitar riffs, subtle strings, and her signature layered harmonies. The lyrics carry a bittersweet intimacy, reflecting on closure and the act of letting go.
At its core, Folded is about more than love lost; it’s about emotional maturity and self-awareness. Lines about packing up memories and “folding away” what no longer serves you resonated deeply with fans navigating their own transitions. That universality helped the song grow organically — people weren’t just streaming it; they were feeling it.
Social media played a part, too. TikTok users used snippets of the song in storytelling videos and edits that emphasized vulnerability. Rather than relying on gimmicks, Folded found traction through authentic connection.
The Climb and the Numbers
By late summer, Folded had quietly become one of Kehlani’s most-streamed singles ever. Radio support began to increase, and by early fall, it cracked the Top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100. When the remix pack dropped, the song surged again — boosted by the addition of legacy artists who appealed to multiple generations of R&B fans.
Finally, in early November, Folded reached its new peak at No. 7, officially marking Kehlani’s first Top 10 appearance as a solo artist.
This is no small milestone. For years, Kehlani has been celebrated for her artistry but hadn’t yet seen that recognition reflected at the very top of the charts. Folded changed that, proving that authenticity and emotional storytelling can thrive even in a landscape dominated by fast hits and algorithm-driven trends.
Monday Night: The Jimmy Kimmel Live! Performance
On November 3, 2025, Kehlani stepped onto the Jimmy Kimmel Live! stage to perform Folded for the first time on national television.
The performance was minimalist yet magnetic. The stage design featured warm lighting and muted tones, echoing the emotional intimacy of the song. Kehlani performed with a full live band — soft drums, bass, guitar, and backing vocals — but the arrangement stayed close to the original, emphasizing her raw vocals.
Midway through the performance, the audience fell silent as Kehlani leaned into the microphone, delivering the song’s final chorus almost a cappella. Her voice cracked slightly in places, not from strain but from emotion. That vulnerability struck a chord with viewers, who flooded social media afterward with praise for her authenticity.
The performance became one of the night’s highlights online. Clips circulated across TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram Reels, with fans calling it one of her best live showings to date. For casual listeners, it served as a formal introduction. For longtime fans, it was a moment of pride — proof that their favorite artist was finally getting the recognition she deserved.
This wasn’t just a performance; it was a statement. Kehlani reminded everyone that stage presence doesn’t have to mean pyrotechnics or choreography. Sometimes, real connection happens when an artist stands still, sings from the heart, and lets the music speak.
The “Folded (Homage Pack)” – A Celebration of Legacy
A few weeks before the Kimmel performance, Kehlani released the Folded (Homage Pack) — a six-track remix collection featuring Toni Braxton, Brandy, JoJo, Mario, Ne-Yo, and Tank.
Each artist brought their own distinctive flavor. Brandy added her signature vocal layering. Toni Braxton infused smoky depth. JoJo and Mario gave the song youthful contrast, while Ne-Yo and Tank lent a smooth, late-night sensuality.
Beyond just being a star-studded remix project, the Homage Pack symbolized something larger — a bridge between eras. Kehlani wasn’t just collaborating with legends for clout; she was acknowledging the lineage of R&B and situating herself within it.
This approach mirrored how modern creators think about legacy: respect the past, innovate in the present, and build a future that feels connected. By reintroducing Folded through these versions, Kehlani extended the song’s life and added layers of meaning. Each remix felt like a love letter to the genre’s roots while keeping her sound firmly contemporary.
What This Means for Kehlani and R&B
A New Era for the Artist
For Kehlani, Folded marks a turning point. It cements her status as one of R&B’s most consistent voices and opens new doors — from major award nominations to global festival headlining opportunities.
The combination of chart success, artistic integrity, and critical acclaim has positioned her as a generational artist — someone who can balance vulnerability and vision, mainstream appeal and musical substance.
Her path also serves as a roadmap for independent-minded artists: you can build slowly, grow authentically, and still break through in a big way.
For R&B and the Industry
The success of Folded reinforces a key truth: R&B isn’t dead — it’s evolving. Songs that prioritize emotion, storytelling, and sonic warmth can still thrive, even in an age of fleeting trends.
By collaborating with icons, Kehlani helped shine a light on the genre’s heritage, reminding younger listeners of the foundation their playlists are built on. For veteran artists, her invitation into the Homage Pack was also a show of respect, acknowledging that the culture is strongest when generations connect rather than compete.
This moment signals a quiet but powerful R&B revival — one led by artists who are proud to stay true to the sound while expanding its reach.
Evergreen Lessons from “Folded”
- Authenticity Wins Every Time
Songs, stories, and art rooted in truth always connect deeper than those chasing trends. - Honour What Came Before You
Acknowledging the pioneers who shaped your craft doesn’t dilute your voice — it deepens it. - Keep Your Content Alive
Remixes, live performances, and creative reinterpretations give your work fresh life long after release. - Less Can Be More
Kehlani’s Kimmel performance proved that emotional stillness can captivate just as much as spectacle. - Connection Is the Goal
Whether it’s through lyrics, visuals, or live energy, the aim is always to connect — to make people feel.
Folded isn’t just another charting single. It’s a symbol of persistence, artistry, and connection. Kehlani’s journey with this song — from recording booth to the Top 10 and a national television stage — shows what can happen when an artist trusts their instincts.
Her performance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! captured everything that makes her special: control, vulnerability, and emotional honesty. The Homage Pack extended that narrative, turning one song into a celebration of R&B’s past, present, and future.
As Folded continues its climb and impact, one thing is clear: Kehlani has entered a new era — one defined not just by hits, but by legacy.
In a fast-changing industry, Folded reminds us that timeless music doesn’t need to shout to be heard. Sometimes, all it takes is a quiet moment, a powerful voice, and a story that speaks to the soul.