Kelis Rogers, commonly known by her stage name Kelis, is an American singer-songwriter who has been a prominent figure in the music industry for over two decades. Kelis rose to fame in the late 1990s with her debut album “Kaleidoscope” which included the hit single “Caught Out There”. Since then, she has released several critically acclaimed albums, collaborated with numerous artists and received multiple awards and nominations for her work.
With her unique blend of R&B, hip hop, and electronic music, Kelis has been able to create a distinct sound that has captivated audiences around the world. Her ability to seamlessly fuse different genres and experiment with different sounds has solidified her place as one of the most innovative artists of her generation. In this article, we will be taking a closer look at the top 10 best Kelis songs of all time, exploring her iconic hits, and revisiting some of her lesser-known gems. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to her music, this list is sure to provide a comprehensive overview of Kelis’s incredible discography.
10. Trick Me
“Trick Me” is a hit single from Kelis’s third studio album, “Tasty”. Released in 2004, the song became an instant classic and a staple of early 2000s pop culture. The track features a funky, guitar-driven beat and Kelis’s signature soulful vocals, creating a sound that is both catchy and infectious. The lyrics tell the story of a woman who is done with a relationship that has left her feeling used and manipulated. With lines like “I’m not the one you’re fooling”, Kelis shows a confidence and self-assuredness that has become a hallmark of her music. The accompanying music video, which features Kelis in a variety of colorful and playful outfits, perfectly captures the song’s fun and energetic vibe. “Trick Me” remains one of Kelis’s most beloved songs to this day, and it’s easy to see why – with its catchy hook and unforgettable melody, it’s a true pop classic.
9. 4th of July (Fireworks)
“4th of July (Fireworks)” is a powerful and emotive track from Kelis’s fifth studio album, “Flesh Tone”. Released in 2010, the song is a departure from Kelis’s earlier sound, showcasing a more mature and introspective side of the artist. The track features a pulsing electronic beat, which builds in intensity throughout the song, creating a sense of anticipation and excitement. Kelis’s vocals are soulful and passionate, perfectly capturing the intense emotions of the lyrics. The song is a celebration of independence and self-discovery, with Kelis singing lines like “I’m free to be the greatest one alive”. The music video, which features Kelis in a series of stunning and visually striking outfits, perfectly complements the song’s message of empowerment and self-love. “4th of July (Fireworks)” is a standout track in Kelis’s discography, showcasing the artist’s ability to evolve and grow while staying true to her unique sound and style.
8. Get Along with You
“Get Along with You” is a soulful and introspective track from Kelis’s debut album, “Kaleidoscope”. Released in 1999, the song showcases Kelis’s unique voice and songwriting skills, setting the stage for her future success in the music industry. The track features a mellow and minimalist beat, allowing Kelis’s vocals to take center stage. The lyrics are poignant and honest, with Kelis singing about her struggles to connect with others and find her place in the world. Lines like “Everybody needs someone they can talk to” are delivered with a vulnerability and emotional depth that is rare in pop music. The music video, which features Kelis in a variety of colorful and eclectic outfits, perfectly complements the song’s dreamy and introspective vibe. “Get Along with You” remains a fan favorite to this day, and it’s easy to see why – with its heartfelt lyrics and soulful vocals, it’s a true gem in Kelis’s discography.
7. In Public ft. Nas
“In Public” is a sultry and provocative track from Kelis’s fourth studio album, “Kelis Was Here”. Released in 2006, the song features a guest verse from Kelis’s then-husband, the rapper Nas, adding an extra layer of intimacy and intensity to the already steamy track. The beat is slow and sensual, with a heavy bassline and sparse percussion, allowing Kelis and Nas’s vocals to take center stage. The lyrics are graphic and explicit, with Kelis and Nas singing about their sexual escapades in public places. Despite the risqué subject matter, the song is delivered with a sense of playfulness and humor that makes it hard to resist. The music video, which features Kelis and Nas in a variety of sensual and provocative scenarios, perfectly complements the song’s steamy and erotic vibe. “In Public” is a standout track in Kelis’s discography, showcasing her ability to push boundaries and experiment with different sounds and styles.
6. Acapella
“Acapella” is an uplifting and anthemic track from Kelis’s fifth studio album, “Flesh Tone”. Released in 2010, the song is a departure from Kelis’s earlier sound, showcasing a more electronic and dance-oriented sound. The beat is infectious and upbeat, with a pulsing bassline and soaring synths, creating a sense of euphoria and joy. Kelis’s vocals are powerful and passionate, perfectly capturing the song’s message of self-love and empowerment. The lyrics encourage listeners to embrace their individuality and let their true selves shine, with lines like “I can do it better when I’m doing it for love”. The music video, which features Kelis in a variety of striking and visually stunning outfits, perfectly complements the song’s uplifting and inspiring message. “Acapella” remains one of Kelis’s most beloved songs to this day, and it’s easy to see why – with its catchy hook and infectious energy, it’s a true pop classic.
5. Good Stuff ft. Terrar aka Pusha T
“Good Stuff” is a funky and upbeat track from Kelis’s second studio album, “Wanderland”. Released in 2001, the song features a guest verse from Terrar aka Pusha T, adding an extra layer of energy and charisma to the already infectious track. The beat is driven by a funky bassline and catchy guitar riff, creating a sound that is both retro and modern. Kelis’s vocals are confident and sassy, perfectly capturing the song’s playful and fun vibe. The lyrics are filled with clever wordplay and pop culture references, with Kelis and Terrar rapping about their wealth and success. The music video, which features Kelis and Terrar in a variety of colorful and eclectic outfits, perfectly complements the song’s funky and vibrant energy. “Good Stuff” is a standout track in Kelis’s discography, showcasing her ability to infuse different genres and sounds into her music while still staying true to her unique style.
4. Millionaire ft. Andre 3000
“Millionaire” is a catchy and upbeat track from Kelis’s third studio album, “Tasty”. Released in 2004, the song features a guest verse from André 3000 of Outkast, adding an extra layer of energy and charisma to the already infectious track. The beat is driven by a bouncy bassline and playful synths, creating a sound that is both catchy and fun. Kelis’s vocals are confident and sassy, perfectly complementing André’s laid-back and playful verse. The lyrics celebrate the joys of success and living life to the fullest, with Kelis singing lines like “I’m a millionaire, but I feel like a bum”. The music video, which features Kelis and André in a variety of playful and colorful outfits, perfectly complements the song’s fun and energetic vibe. “Millionaire” is a standout track in Kelis’s discography, showcasing her ability to collaborate with other artists while still maintaining her unique sound and style.
3.Bossy ft. Too Short
“Bossy” is a confident and empowering track from Kelis’s fourth studio album, “Kelis Was Here”. Released in 2006, the song features a guest verse from Too Short, adding an extra layer of swagger and charisma to the already assertive track. The beat is driven by a funky guitar riff and heavy bassline, creating a sound that is both catchy and empowering. Kelis’s vocals are assertive and self-assured, perfectly capturing the song’s message of female empowerment and independence. The lyrics celebrate the joys of being in control and taking charge, with Kelis singing lines like “You don’t have to love me, you don’t even have to like me, but you will respect me”. The music video, which features Kelis in a variety of stylish and colorful outfits, perfectly complements the song’s confident and assertive vibe. “Bossy” is a standout track in Kelis’s discography, showcasing her ability to create empowering and anthemic music that resonates with listeners around the world.
2.Caught Out There
“Caught Out There” is a bold and rebellious track from Kelis’s debut album, “Kaleidoscope”. Released in 1999, the song features a unique blend of R&B and hip-hop, creating a sound that is both innovative and memorable. The beat is driven by a funky guitar riff and heavy percussion, with Kelis’s powerful vocals taking center stage. The lyrics are a defiant rejection of a cheating partner, with Kelis singing lines like “I hate you so much right now”. The song became an instant classic and a cultural touchstone, with its catchy hook and unforgettable melody captivating audiences around the world. The music video, which features Kelis in a variety of colorful and eclectic outfits, perfectly complements the song’s rebellious and bold vibe. “Caught Out There” is a standout track in Kelis’s discography, showcasing her ability to push boundaries and create music that resonates with listeners on a deep and emotional level.
1. Milkshake
“Milkshake” is an iconic and unforgettable track from Kelis’s third studio album, “Tasty”. Released in 2003, the song became an instant classic and a pop culture phenomenon, with its catchy hook and memorable lyrics making it a staple of dancefloors and karaoke bars around the world. The beat is driven by a minimalist percussion and bouncy synth, with Kelis’s sultry vocals taking center stage. The lyrics are playful and flirtatious, with Kelis singing lines like “My milkshake brings all the boys to the yard”. The music video, which features Kelis in a variety of playful and provocative outfits, perfectly complements the song’s fun and flirty vibe. “Milkshake” remains Kelis’s most beloved and recognizable song to this day, showcasing her ability to create music that is both fun and infectious while still maintaining a sense of authenticity and originality.
Darren Jamison 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.
