Kehlani finally has Grammys in hand. And not just one.
The Oakland-born singer walked into the 2026 Grammy Awards nominated for two of R&B’s most competitive categories and walked out a double winner, taking home both Best R&B Performance and Best R&B Song for her breakout hit “Folded.” For an artist whose influence has long outpaced her awards shelf, the moment felt overdue and deeply earned.
When Kehlani’s name was called for Best R&B Performance, the reaction said it all. Shock. Relief. Gratitude. “Folded” beat out heavy hitters, including Chris Brown and Bryson Tiller, Justin Bieber, Leon Thomas, and Summer Walker.
Moments later, she was back onstage again. This time, to accept Best R&B Song.
With that win, Kehlani officially became a two-time Grammy winner in one night, marking her first-ever Grammy victories after a decade of nominations, near-misses, and quiet perseverance.
“I’ve never won anything before. This is a really crazy feeling,” she said during her acceptance speech. Reflecting on the long road to that stage, she reminded the audience that her first Grammy nomination came ten years ago. “My first Grammy nomination was 10 years ago. It’s been a really long time, and I don’t take anyone who’s been part of this journey for granted.”
Then, in classic Kehlani fashion, she made it clear she wasn’t sanding down her voice for anyone. She ended her speech with a blunt statement that immediately lit up social media: “F*&k ICE.”
The line drew cheers, gasps, and instant debate, but it also reinforced what fans have always known. Kehlani doesn’t separate her art from her politics, or her success from her sense of responsibility. Even at the industry’s biggest night, she showed up as herself.
“Folded” is a song built on vulnerability. It doesn’t chase theatrics or overproduction. Instead, it leans into emotional honesty, controlled vocals, and lyrics that sit with you longer than expected. The track captures a familiar Kehlani strength, turning personal reflection into something communal, especially for listeners who see their own experiences mirrored in her music.
After ten years in the game, Kehlani didn’t just win. She arrived with a double bang!
