Kelis

Kelis

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Palmesus 2011 - Kelis

Kelis Rogers (August 21, 1979), known mononymously as Kelis, is an American singer, songwriter, and chef. She first came to prominence in the late 1990s with her debut album, Kaleidoscope (1999), which was critically acclaimed and produced the hit single "Caught Out There". Kelis's eclectic style and sound, blending R&B, soul, hip hop, and electronic music, have made her a distinctive figure in the music industry.

Early Life

Kelis was born and raised in Harlem, New York City, to a jazz musician father and a fashion designer mother. Her upbringing in a creatively stimulating environment influenced her artistic direction. She attended the prestigious Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts, where she formed her first bands and began to explore her musical talents.

Career

1999–2003: Career Beginnings and Kaleidoscope

Kelis was discovered by The Neptunes' Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo, who produced her debut album, Kaleidoscope. The album was a critical success, especially in the UK, where it achieved gold status. The lead single, "Caught Out There", became a top ten hit in the UK and a MTV staple, known for its iconic scream-along chorus.

2003–2010: Mainstream Success

Her follow-up album, Tasty (2003), propelled her to mainstream success, largely due to the hit single "Milkshake", which peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and became her biggest hit to date. Tasty showcased a more accessible sound and featured collaborations with André 3000, Nas, and CeeLo Green. Following albums, such as Kelis Was Here (2006) and Flesh Tone (2010), saw Kelis experimenting with various musical styles, including dance music and electropop.

2010–Present: Culinary Career and Music Continuation

In addition to her music career, Kelis trained as a sous chef and graduated from Le Cordon Bleu culinary school. She has successfully merged her passion for food and music, hosting a cooking show on the Cooking Channel and releasing a cookbook. Despite her culinary pursuits, Kelis has continued to release music, including the album Food (2014), which features a blend of soulful sounds and culinary-inspired titles.

Artistry

Kelis's music is known for its genre-blending style, incorporating elements of R&B, hip hop, soul, and electronic music. Her vocal style is distinctive, characterized by its boldness and versatility. Kelis has cited a wide range of musical influences, including Ella Fitzgerald, Nina Simone, and Sly & the Family Stone.

Personal Life

Kelis has been open about her personal life, including her marriage to rapper Nas, with whom she has a son. The couple's divorce in 2010 received significant media attention. Kelis is also known for her philanthropic efforts, including her work with various charities and advocacy for culinary education.

Discography

• Kaleidoscope (1999)
• Wanderland (2001)
• Tasty (2003)
• Kelis Was Here (2006)
• Flesh Tone (2010)
• Food (2014)

Awards and Nominations

Kelis has received numerous awards and nominations throughout her career, including a BRIT Award for International Breakthrough Act and several Grammy Award nominations.

Legacy

Kelis's impact on the music industry is marked by her innovative approach to music and her ability to seamlessly blend different genres. Her influence extends beyond music, with her culinary career also earning her acclaim.