Kehlani Drops New Missy Elliott Collab Ahead of Album Release

The R&B star's self-titled fifth studio album arrives on her 31st birthday.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 7:00pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of shimmering, glittering sequins in a high-contrast, high-fashion studio lighting setup, capturing the luxurious, glamorous energy of the new music.The glittering textures and bold lighting of Kehlani's new single artwork reflect the confident, high-energy spirit of her upcoming self-titled album.Philadelphia Today

Kehlani has released 'Back and Forth,' a high-energy collaboration with Missy Elliott, as a preview of her upcoming self-titled album. The track blends smooth R&B with an assertive edge as the two artists trade verses before uniting on the hook. Kehlani's fifth studio album is set to arrive on April 24, coinciding with her 31st birthday.

Why it matters

Kehlani's new album marks an important milestone in her decade-long career, as she continues to evolve her artistic identity and create music that resonates emotionally with listeners. The Missy Elliott collaboration also adds to the legendary producer's legacy of standout features with contemporary artists.

The details

On 'Back and Forth,' Kehlani and Missy Elliott deliver a confident, high-energy track that finds the two artists trading verses before uniting on the hook: 'I ain't goin' back and forth tonight/ I'm goin' out.' The song blends smooth R&B with an assertive edge, serving as a final preview of Kehlani's upcoming self-titled album.

  • Kehlani's fifth studio album, 'Kehlani,' is set to be released on April 24, 2026, which coincides with the artist's 31st birthday.
  • Kehlani is scheduled to perform at the 2026 Roots Picnic in Philadelphia this May, joining a lineup that includes Erykah Badu, Jay-Z, and Brandy.

The players

Kehlani

An R&B singer-songwriter who is set to release her fifth studio album, 'Kehlani,' on April 24, 2026, her 31st birthday.

Missy Elliott

A legendary hip-hop producer and artist who has recently collaborated with artists like Skrillex and Anitta, and was recently inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

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What they’re saying

“I ain't goin' back and forth tonight/ I'm goin' out.”

— Kehlani and Missy Elliott, Singers

“I wanted to create music that resonates emotionally and energizes listeners, while also continuing to evolve my artistic identity more than a decade into my career.”

— Kehlani

What’s next

Kehlani is set to take the stage at the 2026 Roots Picnic in Philadelphia this May, joining a lineup that includes Erykah Badu, Jay-Z, and Brandy.

The takeaway

Kehlani's new collaboration with Missy Elliott and the upcoming release of her self-titled album mark an important evolution in the R&B star's decade-long career, as she continues to create emotionally resonant and energizing music that connects with her fans.