### Kehlani Breaks Her Silence: A Journey of Resilience and Empowerment

Kehlani Ashley Parrish, born on April 24, 1995, in Oakland, California, has faced a tumultuous life filled with challenges that have shaped her into the powerful artist she is today. From overcoming a traumatic childhood to navigating the complexities of fame, Kehlani’s story is one of resilience and strength.

Growing up, Kehlani faced significant hardships. Her mother struggled with drug addiction and was often in and out of jail, while her father died of an overdose before she could even remember him.

Raised by her aunt from the age of 14, Kehlani learned early on how to survive in a world that seemed determined to bring her down. She often expressed that surviving in Oakland meant you could survive anywhere, a testament to her gritty upbringing.

Her journey took a pivotal turn in 2011 when, at just 16, she auditioned for *America’s Got Talent* with her pop group, Pop Life. Despite finishing in fourth place, judge Piers Morgan’s encouragement led her to believe in her talent.

However, the ensuing managerial disputes and contractual issues forced her out of music for six months, leading to a period of homelessness where she couch-surfed and even resorted to stealing food to survive.

In 2014, Kehlani released her first mixtape, *Cloud 9*, which garnered critical acclaim and set the stage for her future success. By 2016, she had gained significant recognition, but her personal life took a dark turn when her relationship with NBA star Kyrie Irving ended amidst public scrutiny.

Following rumors of infidelity, Kehlani faced intense backlash on social media, leading her to a near-fatal suicide attempt. This traumatic experience became a turning point in her life, prompting her to channel her pain into her music.

Kehlani’s debut studio album, *SweetSexySavage*, released in 2017, showcased her growth as an artist and a person. By 2021, she publicly identified as a lesbian and embraced her queer identity, emphasizing her attraction to various genders and non-binary individuals.

Her openness about her sexuality and mental health struggles has resonated with many fans, establishing her as a powerful voice for the LGBTQ+ community.

In 2018, Kehlani announced her pregnancy with her guitarist, Javon Young-White, revealing that she had planned the pregnancy during a break from touring. However, shortly after the birth of their daughter, Ada, their relationship deteriorated.

While they initially maintained a strong co-parenting bond, tensions escalated when Javon filed for full custody in 2024, claiming Kehlani was involved in a cult that endangered their daughter. This shocking allegation led to a restraining order against him, citing emotional and verbal abuse.

Despite the ongoing custody battle, Kehlani has continued to thrive artistically. She has released multiple successful albums, including *It Was Good Until It Wasn’t* and *Blue Water Road*, and her latest project, *Crash*, has sparked both praise and criticism. Kehlani embraces the mixed reception, stating that she is in a new era of not caring what others think.

In addition to her music, Kehlani has become an advocate for mental health, sharing her experiences with therapy and psychiatric care. She emphasizes the importance of seeking help and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Today, she lives on a small farm in California with her daughter, surrounded by nature and peace.

Kehlani’s journey is a testament to her resilience and dedication to living authentically. As she continues to navigate motherhood, her career, and personal challenges, she remains a powerful force in the music industry and an inspiration to many.