Kehlani’s lifelong dream just became a reality. The R&B singer—known for her emotional depth and raw vocals—has officially joined forces with her childhood idol, Mariah Carey, for a brand new track titled “Sugar Sweet.” Released on Friday (July 25), the single also features rising star Shenseea, marking a powerful trio of talent.
To celebrate the occasion, Kehlani shared a deeply emotional message on social media, expressing her gratitude and awe at collaborating with one of the artists who shaped her early musical life.
“Hero” Then, “Sugar Sweet” Now
In her touching post, Kehlani Writes a Heartfelt Message to ‘Hero’ Mariah Carey Following Their Collaboration: ‘She Truly Defines What It Means to Be an Icon’. She began with excitement:
“Nobody speak to me, I got a song with the one and only @mariahcarey.”
Kehlani went on to reflect on how pivotal Carey was during her upbringing:
“The earliest video of me singing and the first song I ever learned was ‘Hero,’ and everybody who knows me knows this is one of my heroes. This woman is the definition of an icon.”
With genuine reverence, Kehlani praised Carey’s enduring impact on the music industry:
“To have given us so much, for DECADES, and never fail to impress us through all the twists and turns music makes. I am so honored and immensely grateful. There truly are no words.”
Shenseea Gets Her Flowers Too
Kehlani didn’t forget to shine a light on her fellow collaborator Shenseea, offering high praise and encouragement:
“@shenseea you’re an absolute BAD A– who is right on your way to legendary status yourself,” she wrote. “I’m happy, man. #SUGARSWEET 🐑 LAMBS WE ARE SO UP.”
Shenseea, clearly moved by the moment, responded in the comments:
“WE DID THAT!!!! Thank you @kehlani I’m so happy for you especially, given your history!”
More to Come from the Legends
“Sugar Sweet” is the second single from Mariah Carey’s highly anticipated upcoming album Here for It All, scheduled to drop in September. The track follows “Type Dangerous”, which already secured Carey her milestone 50th entry on the Billboard Hot 100 earlier this summer. The album promises a mix of nostalgia and fresh collaborations that celebrate her legacy and adaptability as a global icon.
Kehlani’s Momentum Continues
For Kehlani, this collaboration comes at a time of continued creative output. Just last month, she released a track titled “Folded” under Atlantic Records, showcasing her ever-evolving sound. Her most recent album, Crash, dropped in July of last year and climbed to No. 25 on the Billboard 200—another testament to her growing influence in modern R&B.
A Moment of Pure Artistic Full Circle
This partnership isn’t just about music—it’s about legacy, admiration, and dreams fulfilled. Kehlani Writes a Heartfelt Message to ‘Hero’ Mariah Carey Following Their Collaboration: ‘She Truly Defines What It Means to Be an Icon’—and in doing so, reminds fans everywhere that even the biggest stars once had idols they looked up to.
For Kehlani, Mariah Carey wasn’t just a voice on the radio—she was the beginning of everything. And now, they’re creating history together.