It's official! Kelly Rowland's fourth solo studio album, Talk A Good Game, is now in stores. Led by the singles "Kisses Down Low" and "Dirty Laundry," the project taps into the Golden Era of R&B (90s) for inspiration, and with Kelly's love for the genre, we think you may share her excitement. Check out the first part of our intimate chat with Ms. Kelly as she shares details around the record's creation, her love for R&B, career and more.
The Creative Process: The creative process of Talk A Good Game started with a board and on my board I had pictures, I had different things that I wanted to talk about…It was five different titles in between…but the album just really came together itself…It was through conversation, through great fun in the studio…that's how everything sparked.
Inspirations & Influences: The artists that inspired the record were actually 90's artists. I just thought about the first time I cut the radio on and heard R&B, I heard Bobby Brown, I heard Whitney Houston…Pebbles…Babyface…New Addition, and the way R&B made you feel. It has a soul and a pulse to it, it's sexy, it's sultry; I wanted that feeling for this record…Even the newbies know what that feel like, they know what 90s R&B is, they know it's some of the best times in music.
Maintaining Longevity: Hard work; you think of ways to recreate, whether it's music or ideas in your head; making a new.
Career: My career is on a path where I want it to be, and I don't feel like I'm giving up anything, I make time for the things that I wanna make time for.
The State of R&B: I feel like it's coming back. We were in a circa where it was pulse driven, all dance music, and I think that we're about to come out of that. You still have your dance remixes, because they are so important…they actually increase your fan base as well. I love dance music, but I think R&B is about to make its comeback.
Love for R&B: The fact that you can't be still when you listen to it, everything about it just makes you move or just feel something. I love R&B!
Judging on The X Factor: [You will see] a little bit of everything. I am very honest, but I'm also not a dream crusher.
Career Love: Everything really, even in the crazy moments you have to love because I wanted this, I wanted this ever since I was a kid, I wanted to sing. I remember telling my Momma I wanted to sing like Whitney Houston, and I didn't know everything that came with it, I just knew when I did my first solo at church, and I got on that chair to sing with that big poofy cupcake-looking white outfit that my mom put me in, this is what I wanted to do, I wanted to sing. I felt alive, and I'm happy.
Purchase your copy of Talk A Good Game now!
Kelly Rowland is a multi-platinum and Grammy Award winning singer, songwriter, actress and TV host. She has been in the industry since she was just 8 years old when she joined girl group Destiny’s Child. Since then, Kelly has gone on to have an incredible career of her own with hit singles like ‘Dilemma’ featuring Nelly, ‘Stole’ and the classic ‘Say My Name’. Recently we had the chance to catch up with Kelly and discuss her creative process, longevity in music, love for R&B and much more!
The first thing that stands out about Kelly is her sheer dedication to perfecting her craft. With over 20 years in the music business, it’s no surprise that she knows exactly what it takes to stay relevant. For instance, Kelly revealed that before releasing any new material she listens back to all her previous work so as not to get stuck in a rut creatively. This tells us how determined Kelly is to evolve musically while still staying true to herself.
When speaking about her favorite genres of music – which happens to be R&B – the star expressed that there will always be something special about this type of sound. It’s soulful nature allows artists like Kelly to connect with their audience at a deeper level than other genres can offer; allowing them both to express themselves through emotions such as sadness or joy without saying a word. Her passion for this genre makes it easy to understand why fans keep coming back for more from Ms Rowland year after year!
Kelly Rowland’s Journey
Kelly Rowland has had an impressive career spanning over two decades. From her success as part of Destiny’s Child to her solo work, she is a prime example of how longevity and hard work can pay off. She recently sat down with the media platform ‘The Plug’ to discuss her creative process, love for R&B, and her journey so far.
Rowland says that it was important for her to be consistent in order to have staying power as an artist. “I think consistency is key when you’re talking about having a long-standing career,” she said. “You have to make sure that you are giving your best effort every time, no matter what.” Rowland also discussed how creating music has changed since she started out – both positively and negatively. She noted that technology has made collaboration easier but sometimes takes away from the magic of making music in person with others.
When asked what advice she would give aspiring musicians, Rowland said “you really have to know who you are musically and don’t compromise on that”. Even if it means taking longer or going against popular trends, it will benefit them in the long run. This speaks volumes for Kelly’s commitment to staying true to herself throughout her musical journey thus far – something fans continue to admire till this day!
Career Highlights And Reflection
Reflecting on her career, Kelly Rowland has much to be proud of. From being a part of one of the best-selling girl groups in history and releasing multiple chart-topping solo albums, she’s made an impact in the music industry. Some highlights include winning four Grammys for her work with Destiny’s Child as well as having successful collaborations with artists such as Nelly and Snoop Dogg.
Rowland also spoke about how it felt entering into adulthood during the height of her fame with Destiny’s Child. ‘It was amazing because we were all growing up together,’ she said. ‘The whole world was watching us…That really taught me that I could do anything.’ She went on to say that this feeling is something unique that only comes from achieving success at a young age – something not many people get the chance to experience.
As she looks back on everything she’s accomplished over two decades, Rowland expresses gratitude for her journey so far: “I’m thankful every day for my career and what it has allowed me to do…it’s been amazing!” These words speak volumes about Kelly’s drive and appreciation for where life has taken her musically.
Conclusion
I’m so proud of Kelly Rowland and all that she’s achieved throughout her career. She has shown us what it means to stay true to yourself, no matter the challenges you face along the way. No matter how much success she obtains, she never fails to remain humble and gracious.
Kelly is a role model for aspiring singers who want to make their mark in the industry. Her creative process is something we can all admire – taking risks while always staying rooted in her love for R&B music. This passion has kept fans captivated over the years as they look forward to hearing more from her.
From writing hits with Destiny’s Child to releasing new solo material today, Kelly continues to show why she’s one of the most beloved artists in our generation. I wish her nothing but continued success and joy in everything she does!
Founder and Creator of Singersroom.com and IncredibleWork.com. Follow me on Instagram at @gary.gentles.