Kehlani, a first-time Grammy winner, received awards for Best R&B Song and Best R&B Performance for her single “Folded,” marking a significant milestone in her career.
The success of “Folded” is notable as it has climbed to the top 10 on the Hot 100 and R&B charts, receiving recognition from established R&B artists through remixes featured in the “Folded Homage Pack.”
At the Grammy ceremony, Kehlani not only celebrated her achievements but also used the platform to address the ongoing issue of ICE raids in the U.S., transitioning her acceptance speech into a powerful protest.
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She emphasized the importance of collective action, urging fellow artists to unite and speak out against injustices rather than allowing a few voices to bear the burden.
The audience’s reaction to her speech was mixed, with a combination of cheers and stunned silence, particularly following her explosive closing declaration: “And I’ma leave this and say, f**k ICE.”
Kehlani also showcased her commitment to the cause by wearing a pin that read “ICE Out” on the Grammy red carpet, indicating her solidarity with ongoing protests against ICE’s actions.
In an interview before the ceremony, she expressed frustration at the lack of strong statements in such influential spaces, declaring it “brainless” for artists to gather without addressing pressing social issues.
Overall, Kehlani’s Grammy moment was marked by both personal triumph and an urgent call to action, reflecting her desire to leverage her influence for social change.
