Kelis Rogers, better known as Kelis, is an American singer, songwriter, and chef who has been active in the music industry since the late 1990s. Over the course of her career, she has released several successful albums and collaborated with numerous renowned artists, including André 3000, Too Short, and Nas, among others. Kelis’ unique voice and genre-bending music style have earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.
In this article, we will take a look at the 10 best Kelis songs of all time, showcasing her versatility as an artist and her ability to create memorable and iconic tracks. From her early hits like “Caught Out There” and “Milkshake” to her more recent releases such as “Jerk Ribs” and “Bounce,” these songs have cemented Kelis’ place in the music industry as a true icon and trailblazer.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her music, this list is sure to have you singing and dancing along to Kelis’ infectious beats and powerful vocals.
1. Milkshake
“Milkshake” is a catchy and playful R&B song that celebrates the singer’s own irresistible charm and seductive power. The song’s memorable chorus and melody are built around the metaphor of a milkshake, which Kelis uses to describe the unique qualities that make her stand out and attract attention.
With its funky beat, groovy bassline, and bold lyrics, “Milkshake” became an instant classic and a cultural phenomenon, inspiring numerous parodies, covers, and remixes over the years.
The song’s music video, which features Kelis in various surreal and suggestive settings, also helped to establish her as a style icon and a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
2. Trick Me
“Trick Me” is a funky, upbeat track by American singer Kelis. Released in 2003, the song features a catchy guitar riff and a prominent bassline that combine to create an infectious groove.
Kelis’ distinctive vocals soar over the instrumental, as she sings about being deceived by a lover who only wants to use her for their own gain.
The lyrics are playful and witty, with Kelis’ sassy attitude shining through in lines like “You told me you loved me, why did you leave me all alone?” and “I thought you were my ride or die, you were my shawty on the side”.
Overall, “Trick Me” is a fun and funky song that showcases Kelis’ unique style and personality.
3. Deal With It (feat. Kelis)
“Deal With It” is a vibrant and energetic song by American rapper, producer, and songwriter, Timbaland, featuring the soulful and sultry vocals of Kelis. Released in 2007 as a single from Timbaland’s album “Shock Value,” the song boasts a catchy beat, with its fusion of electronic and hip-hop elements, and a memorable chorus that will leave you humming along.
Kelis’ powerful vocals perfectly complement the song’s upbeat and confident lyrics, as she sings about a no-nonsense attitude towards life and relationships, urging listeners to take control of their situations and deal with them head-on. The song’s empowering message and lively production make it a great choice for anyone in need of a pick-me-up, whether it be at the gym, a party, or just to pump yourself up for the day ahead. “Deal With It” is a quintessential Timbaland production that showcases his unique sound and ability to create chart-topping hits, making it a must-listen for fans of hip-hop, pop, and electronic music alike.
4. Bounce (feat. Kelis)
“Bounce” is a high-energy and infectious song by American singer Kelis, released in 2010 as a single from her album “Flesh Tone.” The song features a pulsating beat that is sure to get you moving, with its blend of electronic and dance music influences. Kelis’ dynamic and soulful vocals elevate the track to new heights, with her powerful voice driving the song’s energetic and upbeat vibe.
The lyrics of “Bounce” are equally as lively, with Kelis urging listeners to let go of their inhibitions and dance without reservation. The song’s infectious chorus, “bounce, bounce, bounce, bounce,” is sure to get stuck in your head long after listening. With its positive and uplifting message and irresistible beat, “Bounce” is the perfect anthem for a night out dancing with friends or for getting pumped up before hitting the gym. Kelis’ powerhouse vocals and the song’s expertly crafted production make “Bounce” a standout track in her discography and a must-listen for fans of pop and dance music.
5. Millionaire (feat. André 3000)
“Millionaire” is a funky and soulful collaboration between American singer Kelis and rapper André 3000, released in 2004 as a single from Kelis’ album “Tasty.” The song features a lively beat, with its fusion of hip-hop, funk, and R&B elements, and showcases the unique vocal styles of both Kelis and André 3000.
The song’s lyrics center around the idea of living life to the fullest and enjoying the finer things, with Kelis and André 3000 trading verses about the lavish lifestyle of a millionaire. Kelis’ smooth and sultry vocals perfectly complement André 3000’s charismatic and playful flow, creating a dynamic and entertaining track that will have you grooving along.
The song’s upbeat and infectious production, coupled with its catchy chorus, make it a standout track in Kelis’ discography, and one that will have you feeling like a million bucks. With its positive message and irresistible beat, “Millionaire” is the perfect song to play when you need a boost of confidence or want to celebrate life’s little luxuries.
6. Bossy Featuring Too $hort (feat. Too $hort)
“Bossy” is a bold and sassy song by American singer Kelis, featuring rapper Too $hort. Released in 2006 as a single from Kelis’ album “Kelis Was Here,” the song’s catchy beat and empowering lyrics make it an instant classic.
Kelis’ confident and unapologetic vocals take center stage, as she proclaims her dominance and refuses to be controlled or undermined by anyone. Too $hort’s smooth flow adds an extra layer of attitude to the track, as the two trade verses about asserting their authority and living life on their own terms.
The song’s production features a catchy, repetitive beat that’s sure to get stuck in your head, with its blend of hip-hop and R&B elements. The chorus, “I’m bossy, I’m the one y’all love to hate,” is a memorable anthem for anyone who’s tired of playing small and ready to take charge.
Overall, “Bossy” is a fun and empowering song that celebrates confidence, independence, and self-expression. Kelis’ powerful vocals and Too $hort’s smooth delivery make for a perfect collaboration that’s sure to get you feeling like a boss.
7. FEED THEM
“FEED THEM” is a powerful and politically charged song by American singer Kelis, released in 2014 as a single from her album “FOOD.” The song’s raw and soulful vocals, along with its infectious production, make for a compelling listening experience.
The lyrics of “FEED THEM” address social and political issues, with Kelis urging listeners to take action and make a difference. The song’s chorus, “I know that it’s hard to feed them, but we gotta find a way,” speaks to the struggle of addressing systemic problems like poverty and inequality, while also emphasizing the importance of empathy and compassion.
The song’s production features a blend of soul, funk, and gospel influences, with its upbeat and lively instrumentation providing a hopeful backdrop to the song’s weighty subject matter. Kelis’ passionate and dynamic vocals drive the song’s emotional intensity, making for a powerful and memorable track.
Overall, “FEED THEM” is a poignant and thought-provoking song that encourages listeners to engage with the world around them and work towards positive change. Kelis’ powerful vocals and the song’s expertly crafted production make for a standout track in her discography, and one that’s sure to leave a lasting impact.
8. Suga Honey Iced Tea
“Suga Honey Iced Tea” is a smooth and sultry song by American singer Kelis, released in 2003 as a single from her album “Tasty.” The song’s seductive vocals and silky production make for a sultry listening experience.
The lyrics of “Suga Honey Iced Tea” focus on a relationship that’s both sweet and spicy, with Kelis singing about the passion and excitement of being with someone she loves. The song’s chorus, “Suga honey iced tea, baby you’re the one I need,” is a catchy and memorable hook that will have you singing along.
The song’s production features a blend of R&B and hip-hop influences, with its smooth and groovy instrumentation providing a perfect backdrop to Kelis’ seductive vocals. The song’s sultry vibe and laid-back tempo make it the perfect track to play when you’re in the mood for a little romance.
Overall, “Suga Honey Iced Tea” is a smooth and sexy song that showcases Kelis’ sultry vocals and expertly crafted production. The song’s catchy chorus and silky production make it a standout track in her discography, and one that’s sure to get you in the mood for love.
9. Caught Out There
“Caught Out There” is a bold and assertive song by American singer Kelis, released in 1999 as a single from her debut album “Kaleidoscope.” The song’s catchy beat and empowering lyrics make it an instant classic.
Kelis’ confident and unapologetic vocals take center stage, as she proclaims her anger and frustration towards a cheating partner. The song’s iconic chorus, “I hate you so much right now,” has become a popular catchphrase, resonating with anyone who’s been wronged in a relationship.
The song’s production features a blend of hip-hop and electronic influences, with its infectious beat and catchy hooks providing the perfect backdrop to Kelis’ powerful vocals. The song’s unapologetic message and energetic production make it a perfect anthem for anyone who’s ever been hurt by someone they loved.
Overall, “Caught Out There” is a bold and assertive song that showcases Kelis’ powerful vocals and unapologetic attitude. The song’s catchy chorus and memorable production make it a standout track in her discography, and one that’s sure to get you feeling empowered and ready to take on the world.
10. Acapella
“Acapella” is a vibrant and uplifting song by American singer Kelis, released in 2010 as a single from her album “Flesh Tone.” The song’s energetic production and soaring vocals make for a dynamic and exciting listening experience.
The lyrics of “Acapella” celebrate the power of music and the human voice, with Kelis singing about the joy and freedom of expressing oneself through song. The song’s chorus, “I can feel your heart beat through my shirt,” is a euphoric and uplifting moment that’s sure to get you moving.
The song’s production features a blend of electronic and dance influences, with its pulsing beat and infectious hooks providing a perfect backdrop to Kelis’ powerful vocals. The song’s soaring chorus and uplifting lyrics make it a perfect anthem for anyone who loves to dance and feel alive.
Overall, “Acapella” is a vibrant and uplifting song that showcases Kelis’ powerful vocals and expertly crafted production. The song’s energetic beat and soaring chorus make it a standout track in her discography, and one that’s sure to get you feeling energized and inspired.
Simon Robinson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
