History of Kehlani in Timeline

Kehlani Ashley Parrish, an American singer, songwriter, and dancer from Oakland, California, gained initial recognition as a member of the teen pop group PopLyfe in 2011. Their career has since evolved into a successful solo act, showcasing their musical talent and artistry.

Sections (1)

Full Timeline

August 2017: Receiving a Māori Tattoo

In August 2017, while traveling to Australia, Kehlani received a "Kirituhi", a Māori tattoo, from a New Zealand artist. The tattoo represents family and guidance through adversity.

January 5, 2018: Cover-Up of 'Woke' Tattoo

On January 5, 2018, Kehlani posted a photo to Instagram showing that their hand tattoo of the word "woke" had been covered up with a lotus flower.

April 2018: Announcement of Sexuality on Twitter

In April 2018, Kehlani spoke about their sexuality on Twitter, stating, "I'm queer. Not bi, not straight. I'm attracted to women, men, REALLY attracted to queer men, non-binary people, intersex people, trans people. lil poly pansexual".

April 2019: Statement on Non-Binary Identity

In an April 2019 interview with Diva, Kehlani stated they are "definitely on the non-binary scale" despite preferring "she" pronouns.

December 2020: Pronoun Update on Twitter

In December 2020, Kehlani updated their pronouns on Twitter to "she/they".

2021: Preference for 'They' Pronouns

In 2021, during an interview with Byrdie Magazine, Kehlani stated their preference for "they" over "she" pronouns.

2021: Announcement as a Lesbian

In early 2021, Kehlani announced during a livestream that they are a lesbian, after having publicly identified as queer and pansexual in the past.

October 2023: Signing of Artists Against Apartheid Open Letter

In October 2023, Kehlani was a principal signer of the open letter, Artists Against Apartheid.

November 2023: Signing of Ceasefire Open Letter

In November 2023, Kehlani signed an open letter calling for a ceasefire and an end to the Israeli blockade of the Gaza Strip.

May 27, 2024: Criticism of Musicians' Silence on Gaza-Israel Conflict

On May 27, 2024, Kehlani criticized fellow musicians on Instagram for their silence regarding the Gaza–Israel conflict in Palestine.

2024: Unveiling of Merchandise for Charity

In 2024, Kehlani unveiled merchandise created by Palestinian, Nöl Collective creative director and founder, Yasmeen Mjalli, in tandem with the release of their single "Next 2 U". The proceeds from the sales went towards aiding Palestinian, Congolese and Sudanese families.

Loading Video...

April 2025: Cancellation of Cornell University Performance

In April 2025, Kehlani's scheduled performance at Cornell University's annual Slope Day was canceled by university president Michael Kotlikoff due to their support for Palestine, with Kotlikoff claiming Kehlani espoused antisemitic sentiments. Kehlani responded on Instagram, denying antisemitism and criticizing the Israeli government's actions.

May 2025: Cancellation of New York Concert

In May 2025, Kehlani's scheduled concert in New York was canceled after pressure from New York City mayor Eric Adams, citing "security concerns" due to Kehlani's pro-Palestine views.