R&B star Kehlani has frequently discussed her sexuality throughout her career. On June 30th, she addressed the topic again in a series of TikTok videos, firmly clarifying her stance for anyone still unsure. In the first video, Kehlani emphasized the importance of prioritizing female voices for happiness. “I was bisexual my entire life, and then I came out as a lesbian almost four years ago now,” she said. She reflected on the positive changes in her life that came from focusing on women and herself, saying, “When all the bad b—hes decide what planet we’re going to after we f–k this one, invite me, because I will thrive.”
While most fans supported her, some questioned her sincerity, citing her past relationships with men. In response, Kehlani posted a second video addressing these claims. “Bringing up the fact that I had a child, or bringing up ex-boyfriends from four years ago or before… I’m 29. I will be 30 next year,” she said, asserting her identity as a lesbian. She added that her sexuality influences her music, stating, “Yes, my music is gay! Who I perform to and for is the gays.”
Kehlani has been open about her identity before. In a now-deleted TikTok from April 2021, she declared herself “gay, gay, gay, gay, gay,” noting that everyone in her life already knew. She humorously recounted how her family and friends reacted with nonchalance when she came out to them, expecting more surprise.
Recently, Kehlani released her fourth studio album, Crash, which debuted at No. 25 on the Billboard 200 as of July 6. The album’s lead single, “After Hours,” reached No. 72 on the Hot 100, just two spots below Jordan Adetunji’s viral single titled “Kehlani.”