In this article, here is the full details of Kelis about wiki, biography, date of birth, birthplace, zodiac sign, nationality, hometown, age, height, weight, father, mother, family, boyfriend, husband, relationship status, children, profession, education, career, net worth, facts, Wikipedia, and many more.
Kelis, born Kelis Rogers on August 21, 1979, in Harlem, New York City, is an American singer, songwriter, and chef. Known for her distinctive voice, eclectic music style, and bold personality, Kelis rose to fame in the early 2000s with her chart-topping hits such as “Milkshake” and “Caught Out There.” Over the years, she has expanded her career to include culinary ventures and has become known as a dynamic figure in both the music and food industries.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Kelis was born into an artistic and diverse family. Her father, Kenneth Rogers, was a jazz musician and Pentecostal minister, while her mother, Eveliss Rogers, was a fashion designer. Kelis grew up surrounded by creativity, and her passion for music and performance was nurtured from a young age. She attended the prestigious Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts in Manhattan, where she studied singing and graduated with a focus on classical training.
Her stage name, Kelis, is a combination of her first and middle names, Kelis and Ise. As a teenager, she sang in church choirs, performed in theater, and played multiple instruments. Her talent was evident early on, and she quickly caught the attention of influential figures in the music world.
Breakthrough with “Kaleidoscope” (1999)
In the late 1990s, Kelis was introduced to the production duo The Neptunes (Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo), who would play a pivotal role in her early career. Together, they crafted Kelis’ debut album “Kaleidoscope,” which was released in 1999. The album was a critical success, blending elements of R&B, hip hop, and electronic music with Kelis’ unique vocal style.
The album’s lead single, “Caught Out There,” became an anthem for women and is famous for its angry refrain, “I hate you so much right now!” The song resonated with audiences and showcased Kelis’ bold, unapologetic approach to music. Although “Kaleidoscope” didn’t achieve massive commercial success in the U.S., it gained her a devoted fan base in Europe, particularly in the U.K.
Success with “Tasty” and “Milkshake” (2003)
Kelis’ breakthrough in mainstream music came with her third album, “Tasty,” released in 2003. This album was a commercial triumph, blending genres like R&B, soul, and funk. It included her most iconic hit, “Milkshake,” which peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a pop culture phenomenon.
“Milkshake” was not just a commercial hit but a defining song of the 2000s. Its catchy hook and sultry lyrics cemented Kelis’ status as a pop and R&B star. The song earned her a Grammy nomination and extensive media attention, making her one of the most recognizable voices of the time.
Other singles from the album, including “Trick Me” and “Millionaire” (featuring André 3000), further showcased Kelis’ ability to mix genres and push creative boundaries. “Tasty” solidified her as a unique and fearless artist in the music industry.
“Kelis Was Here” (2006) and Transition in Sound
Kelis’ fourth studio album, “Kelis Was Here,” was released in 2006 and further demonstrated her versatility as an artist. The album featured a wide range of sounds, from hip-hop and R&B to pop and electronic music. The lead single, “Bossy” (featuring Too Short), became another hit and marked a shift in her image, embracing a more assertive and independent persona.
“Bossy” showcased Kelis’ confidence and was a celebration of her empowerment, with lyrics reflecting her self-sufficient nature. The album earned her another Grammy nomination for Best Urban/Alternative Performance, though it didn’t reach the same commercial heights as “Tasty.”
Culinary Career and “Flesh Tone” (2010)
In the late 2000s, Kelis began pursuing her passion for food. She trained as a chef at the Le Cordon Bleu Culinary School and later launched her own line of sauces called “Feast.” This marked a new chapter in her career, combining her love for music and food. She hosted a cooking show on the Cooking Channel, titled “Saucy and Sweet,” and has since been an active figure in the culinary world, often appearing at food festivals and releasing her cookbook, “My Life on a Plate” in 2015.
During this time, Kelis also released her fifth album, “Flesh Tone” (2010), which marked a departure from her earlier R&B sound, delving into electronic dance music. The album was well-received, particularly in Europe, and singles like “Acapella” became club hits. “Flesh Tone” was praised for its innovative production and its upbeat, celebratory tone, influenced by the birth of her first child.
Personal Life
Kelis has experienced several high-profile relationships. She married rapper Nas in 2005, and the couple became a prominent pair in the music industry. However, they divorced in 2010, shortly after the birth of their son, Knight Jones. Their separation was highly publicized, and Kelis later spoke about the difficulties of the relationship, including allegations of domestic abuse.
Kelis found happiness again and remarried photographer Mike Mora in 2014, with whom she had her second child, Shepherd Mora, in 2015. Tragically, Mora passed away in 2022 after battling stage 4 stomach cancer. Despite personal challenges, Kelis has remained resilient and continues to pursue her passions in both music and food.
Musical Innovation and Later Career
Kelis has continued to release music sporadically, focusing on her passions and entrepreneurial ventures. In 2014, she released her sixth album, “Food,” which received critical acclaim. This album was heavily influenced by her culinary journey and featured rich, soulful sounds combined with retro and funk elements. Singles like “Jerk Ribs” highlighted her ability to continually evolve as an artist.
Beyond her own music, Kelis has been a significant influence on other artists and has collaborated with a wide range of musicians, including Calvin Harris, Dave Sitek, and Busta Rhymes. Her contributions to the music industry are recognized for pushing boundaries, both in sound and style.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Kelis has long been recognized as a trailblazer in the music industry. Her ability to mix genres and defy industry expectations has earned her respect from fans and peers alike. She has never been afraid to experiment with her sound, whether it’s the rebellious R&B of her early career or the electronic dance music of “Flesh Tone.”
Kelis’ influence is also evident in her image. She has long been a fashion icon, known for her bold, colorful hairstyles, and fearless sense of style. She paved the way for artists who value both creativity and independence, and her work continues to inspire younger generations of musicians.
Conclusion
Kelis is a multifaceted artist who has successfully navigated the worlds of music, food, and business. With a career that spans more than two decades, she remains a cultural icon known for her innovation, independence, and resilience. Her contributions to music and her foray into the culinary world make her one of the most unique and influential figures in entertainment. Despite personal and professional challenges, Kelis has always forged her own path, leaving an indelible mark on both the music industry and beyond.
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