K. Michelle

{{Short description|American singer (born 1982)}} {{Use mdy dates|date=February 2026}} {{Infobox person | name = K. Michelle | image = K. Michelle BMI Rooftop On The Row.jpg | caption = K. Michelle performing at BMI's Rooftop on the Row event in 2023 | birth_name = Kimberly Michelle Pate<ref>{{cite interview |interviewer1 = Charlamagne Tha God|interviewer1-link = Charlamagne Tha God|interviewer2 = DJ Envy|interviewer2-link = DJ Envy|interviewer3 = Angela Yee|interviewer3-link = Angela Yee |title = K. Michelle at The Breakfast Club |work = The Breakfast Club |publisher = WWPR |location = New York City |date = November 20, 2012}}</ref> | birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1982|03|04}}<!--Birthdate is sourced in Early life section. --> | birth_place = Memphis, Tennessee, U.S. | education = Florida A&M University (BL) | occupation = {{hlist|Singer|songwriter|television personality|actress}} | years_active = 2009–present | spouse = {{marriage|Kastan Sims|2025}} | children = 1 | signature = K-michelle-logo.jpg | module = {{Infobox musical artist |embed=yes | genre = {{flatlist| * R&B * country }} | label = {{flatlist| * BBR * MNRK * Atlantic * Jive * RCA }} | website = {{URL|thekmichelle.com}} }} }}

'''Kimberly Michelle Pate''' (born March 4, 1982),<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-03-03 |title=K. Michelle’s Beauty Evolution |url=https://www.essence.com/beauty/k-michelle-beauty-evolution/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=Essence |language=en-US}}</ref> known professionally as '''K. Michelle''', is an American singer, songwriter, television personality, and actress.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://youknowigotsoul.com/interview-k-michelle-talks-%E2%80%9Crebellious-soul%E2%80%9D-winning-once-she-stopped-caring-reality-tv/|title=Interview: K. Michelle Talks "Rebellious Soul", Winning Once She Stopped Caring, Reality TV|work= YouKnowIGotSoul|access-date=January 12, 2015}}</ref>

She has earned three top-ten albums on the US ''Billboard'' 200 and three number-one albums on the US Billboard R&B Albums chart.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mendizabal |first=Amaya |date=2016-04-06 |title=K. Michelle Earns Second No. 1 on Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums, While Anthony Hamilton Scores His Highest-Charting Effort Ever |url=https://www.billboard.com/pro/k-michelle-second-number-1-top-rb-hip-hop-albums/ |access-date=2026-05-31 |website=Billboard |language=en-US}}</ref> She has sold over 5 million certified units in the US.<ref>[https://www.riaa.com/gold-platinum/?tab_active=default-award&se=K.+Michelle#search_section K. Michelle RIAA Certifications]. RIAA. Retrieved on May 29, 2026</ref>

== Early life == Kimberly Michelle Pate was born on March 4, 1982, in Memphis, Tennessee.<ref>{{cite web |title=Happy Birthday K. Michelle |url=https://majic945.com/74339/happy-birthday-k-michelle/ |website=Urban One |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200912152627/https://majic945.com/74339/happy-birthday-k-michelle/ |archive-date=September 12, 2020 |date=March 4, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref> She began developing an interest in music at an early age, learning to play piano and guitar and taking vocal lessons from Bob Westbrook, a vocal coach known for working with artists including Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears. She attended Overton High School in Memphis, graduating in 2000.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://theteenappeal.wordpress.com/2015/05/05/overton-high-visited-by-former-student-k-michelle/ |title=Overton High visited by former student K. Michelle |work=The Teen Appeal |date=May 21, 2015 |access-date=July 28, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=Jane |last=Roberts |url=http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/local-news/life-lesson |title=Entertainers preach gospel of earning an education |work=The Commercial Appeal |date=October 8, 2010 |access-date=July 28, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150629070303/http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/local-news/life-lesson |archive-date=June 29, 2015 }}</ref>

Following high school, K. Michelle received a music scholarship to Florida A&M University (FAMU). She studied music and became involved in campus life. She was crowned the Freshman Attendant of the Homecoming Court.<ref name="rattler">{{cite book|url=http://ufdc.ufl.edu/AM00000319/00013/30j|title=Rattler|publisher=Florida A&M University|date=2001|access-date=January 12, 2015}}</ref> She later joined the Delta Sigma Theta sorority, pledging the Beta Alpha chapter in 2001.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://s2smagazine.com/78938/k-michelle-talks-delta-sigma-theta-being-a-role-model/ |title=K.Michelle talks Delta Sigma Theta, being a role model |work=S2SMagazine.com |access-date=January 12, 2015}}</ref> During her time at FAMU, she temporarily paused her studies after the birth of her son in 2004 before returning to complete her degree.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.eurweb.com/2014/10/k-michelle-on-beef-with-tamar-and-not-sexing-chad-ochocinco-watch/ |title=K. Michelle on Beef with Tamar and Not Sexing Chad Ochocinco (Watch) |publisher=EURweb.com |access-date=July 28, 2016 |archive-date=March 4, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304104928/http://www.eurweb.com/2014/10/k-michelle-on-beef-with-tamar-and-not-sexing-chad-ochocinco-watch/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> She graduated with honors and was offered acceptance to multiple law schools, though she ultimately declined to pursue a legal career in favor of focusing on music full-time.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vibe.com/2016/03/k-michelle-endorses-hillary-clinton-for-president/ |title=K. Michelle Fans Do Not Approve Of Her Hillary Clinton Endorsement |website=Vibe.com |date=March 1, 2016 |access-date=March 6, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=Shamika |last=Sanders |url=http://theurbandaily.com/2012/06/19/k-michelle-baby-daddy-love-hip-hop-atlanta/ |title=Who Is K. Michelle's Baby Daddy? "Love & Hip Hop Atlanta" |work=The Urban Daily |date=July 27, 2014 |access-date=July 28, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://theurbandaily.com/2011/06/24/k-michelle-beef-keyshia-cole-r-kelly-pain-medicine-album-interview/ |title=K. Michelle Talks Beef With Keyshia Cole & Working With R-Kelly on Her Debut Album |work=The Urban Daily |date=June 25, 2011 |access-date=July 28, 2016}}</ref>

== Career == === 2009–2011: Beginnings === In 2009, she signed a recording contract with Jive Records and released her debut single, "Fakin' It", featuring Missy Elliott.<ref name="Elliott">{{cite magazine|title=K. Michelle Chart History (Peak Dates)|url={{BillboardURLbyName|artist=k. michelle|chart=R&B/Hip-Hop Songs}}|magazine=Billboard|access-date=September 15, 2012}}</ref> The single charted on the U.S. Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, peaking at number 100. Throughout 2010, she released several follow-up singles, including "Fallin'", "I Just Can't Do This" and "How Many Times", which also charted on the U.S. Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.<ref name="K. Michelle">{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/artist/276636/k-michelle/chart?f=367|title=K. Michelle|magazine=Billboard|access-date=January 12, 2015}}</ref>

During this period, she worked on her planned debut studio album, originally titled ''Pain Medicine''. The project was reported to include collaborations with artists such as Trina, Gucci Mane, Akon, Usher, and R. Kelly, whom she has described as a mentor during the early stages of her career.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bet.com/article/95j9eb/k-michelle-i-m-the-happiest-i-ve-been-in-my-career |title=K. Michelle: "I'm the Happiest I've Been in My Career" |date=August 2, 2011 |publisher=BET |access-date=August 29, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://hiphopwired.com/2011/07/01/k-michelle-says-%E2%80%9Cfck-jive-records%E2%80%9D-talks-r-kelly-mentorship-crush-on-lupe-fiasco-video/ |title=K. Michelle Says "Fawk Jive Records", Talks R. Kelly Mentorship, Crush on Lupe Fiasco |author=Canada, Danielle |date=July 1, 2011 |access-date=August 29, 2012 |publisher=hiphopwired.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141219040537/http://hiphopwired.com/2011/07/01/k-michelle-says-%E2%80%9Cfck-jive-records%E2%80%9D-talks-r-kelly-mentorship-crush-on-lupe-fiasco-video/ |archive-date=December 19, 2014 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Hunter |last=Harris |url=https://www.thecut.com/2017/09/k-michelle-on-r-kelly-allegations-im-not-surprised.html |title=K. Michelle on R. Kelly Allegations: "I'm Not Surprised" |website=Thecut.com |date=September 8, 2017 |access-date=March 6, 2020}}</ref> However, the album was ultimately shelved following the closure of Jive Records in 2011, and she was released from the label.

=== 2012–2014: ''Love & Hip Hop'', ''Rebellious Soul'', ''Anybody Wanna Buy a Heart?'' ===

In 2012, she joined the cast of VH1's reality series ''Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vh1.com/shows/love_and_hip_hop_atlanta/cast_member.jhtml?personalityId=15530|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120622203522/http://www.vh1.com/shows/love_and_hip_hop_atlanta/cast_member.jhtml?personalityId=15530|url-status=dead|archive-date=June 22, 2012|title=Love & Hip Hop Atlanta " Cast › K.Michelle|access-date=August 29, 2012|publisher=VH1}}</ref> The first season documented her return to the music industry following personal and professional setbacks, including a previously reported abusive relationship with a music executive.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://107jamz.com/memphitz-admits-to-beating-k-michelle-and-lost-lawsuit-against-her/|title=Memphitz Admits To Beating K. Michelle And Lost Lawsuit Against Her|work=107 JAMZ|date=April 11, 2015 }}</ref> She became one of the breakout figures of the series and subsequently signed a multi-album recording contract with Atlantic Records.<ref>{{cite web|first=Mosi |last=Reeves |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/k-michelle-talks-double-standard-for-black-pop-singers-160705/ |title=K. Michelle Talks Double-Standard for Black Pop Singers |magazine=Rolling Stone |date=May 27, 2016 |access-date=March 6, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://singersroom.com/content/2012-11-19/K-Michelle-Signs-Major-Record-Deal-With-Warner-Bros-Talks-Being-Blessed-EXCLUSIVE/ |title=K. Michelle Signs Major Record Deal With Warner Bros, Talks Being Blessed |publisher=Singersroom |date=November 19, 2012 |access-date=August 20, 2013}}</ref> She returned for the show's second season, which chronicled the recording of her debut studio album, ''Rebellious Soul''.

On May 20, 2013, she released "V.S.O.P" as the lead single from her debut album ''Rebellious Soul''. The song, produced by Pop & Oak, contains a sample of “Very Special” by Debra Laws, and "That's How Long" performed by The Chi-Lites.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://madamenoire.com/284327/pass-or-play-k-michelle-shows-her-skills-in-new-v-s-o-p-video/|title=Pass Or Play? K Michelle Shows Her Skills in New "V.S.O.P." Video|work=MadameNoire|date=July 2013|access-date=January 12, 2015|archive-date=August 31, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130831175127/http://madamenoire.com/284327/pass-or-play-k-michelle-shows-her-skills-in-new-v-s-o-p-video/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://theybf.com/2013/05/20/brand-new-music-k-michelles-vsop-single |title=BRAND NEW MUSIC: K. Michelle's "V.S.O.P" Single &#124; The Young, Black, and Fabulous |publisher=Theybf.com |access-date=July 23, 2013 |archive-date=July 8, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130708045023/http://theybf.com/2013/05/20/brand-new-music-k-michelles-vsop-single |url-status=dead }}</ref> It peaked at number 89 on the US ''Billboard'' Hot 100<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/artist/276636/k-michelle/chart?f=379|title=K. Michelle|magazine=Billboard|access-date=January 12, 2015}}</ref> and number 27 on the US ''Billboard'' Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.<ref name="K. Michelle" /> Its music video, directed by Benny Boom, was released on June 29, 2013.<ref>{{cite web |first=Brian |last=Davis |url=http://concreteloop.com/2013/07/music-video-k-michelle-v-s-o-p |title=Music Video: K. Michelle – "V.S.O.P." – Concreteloop.Com &#124; Quality Not Quantity |publisher=Concreteloop.com |date=July 1, 2013 |access-date=July 23, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130925181437/http://concreteloop.com/2013/07/music-video-k-michelle-v-s-o-p |archive-date=September 25, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Exton |first=Emily |url=http://blog.vh1.com/2013-07-01/kmichelle-vsop-music-video/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130703040302/http://blog.vh1.com/2013-07-01/kmichelle-vsop-music-video/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=July 3, 2013 |title=Watch K.Michelle's Music Video For "V.S.O.P." &#124; Reality TV + Gossip |publisher=VH1 |date=July 1, 2013 |access-date=July 23, 2013}}</ref> The single was later certified Gold by the RIAA.<ref name="auto">{{Cite web |last=Folk |first=Antwane |date=2024-12-20 |title=K. Michelle Earns Her First Two Platinum RIAA Certifications |url=https://ratedrnb.com/2024/12/k-michelle-earns-her-first-two-platinum-riaa-certifications/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=Rated R&B |language=en}}</ref> The album was released on August 13, 2013, debuting at number two on the U.S. ''Billboard'' 200 and number one on the U.S. Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart with first-week sales of 72,000 copies.<ref name="Rebellious Soul B200 debut">{{cite web|last=Tardio |first=Andres |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.25134/title.hip-hop-album-sales-the-week-ending-8-18-2013|title=Hip Hop Album Sales: The Week Ending 8/18/2013|date=August 21, 2013 |publisher=HipHopDX |access-date=August 21, 2013}}</ref> By late 2014, it had sold over 260,000 copies in the United States, and was later certified Gold.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hitsdailydouble.com/sales/sales_ur.cgi |title=HITSDailyDouble: Upcoming Releases |publisher=Hitsdailydouble.com |access-date=January 12, 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20140129032930/http://www.hitsdailydouble.com/sales/sales_ur.cgi |archive-date=January 29, 2014 }}</ref><ref name="auto"/>

Following the album’s release, she embarked on her first headlining tour, ''The Rebellious Soul Tour'', presented by BET Music Matters, which ran from November to December 2013. The tour featured supporting acts including Sevyn Streeter and Tiara Thomas. In January 2014, she released "Can't Raise a Man" which peaked at number 94 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and number 23 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Billboard Hot 100 Chart|url=http://www.billboard.com/artist/276636/k-michelle/chart?f=379|magazine=Billboard|access-date=February 15, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|title=Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs Chart|url=http://www.billboard.com/artist/276636/k-michelle/chart?f=367|magazine=Billboard|access-date=February 15, 2014}}</ref> The single was later certified Platinum.

After departing Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta, she joined the cast of ''Love & Hip Hop: New York'' for its fourth season.<ref name="BET">{{cite news |first=Latifah |last=Muhammad |date=April 18, 2013 |url=https://www.bet.com/article/nhwxsy/k-michelle-confirms-she-s-leaving-love-hip-hop-atlanta |title=K. Michelle Confirms She's Leaving Love & Hip Hop Atlanta |work=BET}}</ref> During this period, she released the mixtape ''Still No Fucks Given'' (2014) and toured as a supporting act on Robin Thicke's Blurred Lines Tour. Her participation in ''Love & Hip Hop: New York'' also served as a lead-in to her own reality series'',K. Michelle: My Life'', which premiered in November 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://orangemixtapes.com/mixtape/K/644/1064-k-michelle-still-no-|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140729135443/http://orangemixtapes.com/mixtape/K/644/1064-k-michelle-still-no-|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 29, 2014|title=K. Michelle – Still No Fucks Given|publisher=Orangemixtapes.com|access-date=January 12, 2015}}</ref> <ref name="march2014">{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/vh1-schedule-new-slate-includes-685868|title=VH1 Unveils New Slate: Rappers, DNA Testing and Walks of Shame|last=Rose|first=Lacey|date=March 5, 2014|work=The Hollywood Reporter|access-date=March 5, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wetpaint.com/love-and-hip-hop-atlanta/articles/2014-07-21-k-michelles-spin-reality-show#|title=K. Michelle's New Spin-Off Reality Show Gets Air Date (Photo)|last=Augustine|first=Afiya |date=July 21, 2014|publisher=Wetpaint|access-date=July 31, 2014}}</ref>

On September 16, 2014, she released "Love 'Em All" as the lead single from her second studio album ''Anybody Wanna Buy a Heart?''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.directlyrics.com/listen-k-michelle-premieres-heartbreaker-anthem-love-em-all-news.html|title=Listen: K. Michelle Premieres Heartbreaker Anthem "Love 'Em All"|work=Directlyrics|access-date=January 12, 2015}}</ref> The album was released on December 9, 2014, through Atlantic Records and debuted at number six on the ''Billboard'' 200 chart and number one on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, selling 87,000 copies in its first week.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31788/title.hip-hop-album-sales-j-cole-eminem-prhyme|title=Hip Hop Album Sales: J. Cole, Eminem, PRhyme|date=December 17, 2014|publisher=Hiphopdx.com|access-date=January 12, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/chart-beat/6413817/k-michelle-tops-rb-albums|title=K. Michelle|magazine=Billboard|date=December 18, 2014|access-date=January 12, 2015}}</ref> ''Billboard'' recognized it as the highest-selling female R&B album of 2014.<ref>{{Cite web |last=R&B |first=Rated |date=2014-12-19 |title=K. Michelle Earns Second No. 1 Album With 'AWBAH' |url=https://ratedrnb.com/2014/12/k-michelle-earns-second-no-1-album-with-awbah/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=Rated R&B |language=en}}</ref> It produced the singles “Maybe I Should Call” and “Hard to Do,” both of which were later certified Gold by the RIAA.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Folk |first=Antwane |date=2024-12-20 |title=K. Michelle Earns Her First Two Platinum RIAA Certifications |url=https://ratedrnb.com/2024/12/k-michelle-earns-her-first-two-platinum-riaa-certifications/ |access-date=2026-05-19 |website=Rated R&B |language=en}}</ref> The album also included the single “How Do You Know?” “Love 'Em All” was later certified Platinum by the RIAA, and the album track “Cry” was certified Gold.<ref name="auto"/>

=== 2015–2017: ''More Issues Than Vogue'', ''Kimberly: The People I Used to Know'' === In 2016, she released "Not a Little Bit" as the lead single from her third studio album ''More Issues Than Vogue,'' followed by several promotional singles including “Ain’t You,” “Mindful,” and “Time.” <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jcNZLsBjCr8 |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211215/jcNZLsBjCr8 |archive-date=December 15, 2021 |url-status=live|title=K. Michelle – Not A Little Bit (Official Audio)|date=January 21, 2016 |via=YouTube|access-date=February 17, 2016}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/gb/album/not-a-little-bit-single/1076718354|title= Not a Little Bit – Single by K. Michelle|date= January 22, 2016|publisher=iTunes Store|access-date=February 17, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97Kjct8aieA |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160212055023/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97Kjct8aieA&gl=US&hl=en |archive-date=February 12, 2016 |url-status=dead|title=K. Michelle – Ain't You (Official Audio)|via=YouTube|access-date=February 17, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=K. Michelle Mindful Stream [New Song]|url=https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/580875-k-michelle-mindful-new-song|website=HotNewHipHop|date=February 19, 2016|access-date=February 27, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=K. Michelle Time Stream [New Song]|url=https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/581127-k-michelle-time-new-song|website=HotNewHipHop|date=February 26, 2016|access-date=February 27, 2016}}</ref> The album was made available for pre-order in February 2016 and released on March 25, 2016. It debuted at number two on the US Billboard 200 and number one on the Top R&B Albums chart.<ref>{{Cite web |title=K. Michelle's Album 'More Issues Than Vogue 'Tops The Billboard Charts |url=https://www.vh1.com/news/7f94b6/k-michelles-album-more-issues-than-vogue-tops-billboard |access-date=2026-05-19 |website=www.vh1.com |language=en-us}}</ref>

Following her return appearances on Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta, she rejoined the main cast for season five, which documented her relocation to Atlanta and the release of More Issues Than Vogue. Later that year, she embarked on the Hello Kimberly Tour, which ran from July to August 2016. In September 2016, she released “Forward,” a contribution to the soundtrack of the film "The Birth of a Nation".<ref name=":1">{{cite web|url=https://www.vh1.com/news/otxgjp/k-michelle-the-birth-of-a-nation|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230424031156/https://www.vh1.com/news/otxgjp/k-michelle-the-birth-of-a-nation|url-status=live|archive-date=April 24, 2023|title=K. Michelle Inspires All to Push "Forward" in Her New Single Featured on The Birth of a Nation Soundtrack|last=Michel|date=September 30, 2016|first=Sarah|website=VH1 News|access-date=January 21, 2017}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{cite web|url=https://ratedrnb.com/2016/09/k-michelle-forward-birth-of-a-nation/|title=K. Michelle Shares New Song 'Forward' from 'The Birth of a Nation' Soundtrack|date=September 30, 2016|website=Rated R&B|language=en-US|access-date=January 21, 2017}}</ref>

In 2017, she was featured on “Got Me Crazy” in collaboration with DJ Feezy, Rick Ross, and Fabolous.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Anthony |first=Devon |date=2017-02-08 |title=Rick Ross, K. Michelle And Fabolous Join DJ E-Feezy On “Got Me Crazy” |url=https://www.vibe.com/music/music-news/rick-ross-k-michelle-fabolous-dj-e-feezy-got-me-crazy-485985/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=VIBE.com |language=en-US}}</ref> Her reality series ''K. Michelle: My Life'' concluded after three seasons the same year. She later released the singles “Birthday” and “Either Way” featuring Chris Brown, leading into her fourth studio album ''Kimberly: The People I Used to Know'', released on December 7, 2017, which became her fourth album to reach the top ten of the US Top R&B Albums chart. The project also marked her final release under Atlantic Records.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2017/09/07/new-music-k-michelle-birthday-either-way-chris-brown/|title=New Music: K. Michelle – 'Birthday' + 'Either Way' feat. Chris Brown|work=Rap-Up|date=September 8, 2017|access-date=September 8, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Citation|title=Kimberly: The People I Used to Know by K. Michelle|date=December 7, 2017|url=https://music.apple.com/us/album/kimberly-the-people-i-used-to-know/1294801384|publisher=iTunes Store|language=en-US|access-date=July 7, 2018}}</ref>

=== 2018–2023: ''All Monsters Are Human'' and ''I'm the Problem'' === In 2018, she joined the cast of ''Love & Hip Hop: Hollywood'' for its fifth season, becoming the first cast member in the franchise to appear as a main cast member across three different installments. During this period, she signed with Entertainment One Music. and released the single "Save Me".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://abcnewsradioonline.com/music-news/2018/11/20/listen-now-k-michelle-debuts-new-single-save-me-on-the-love.html|title=Listen now: K. Michelle debuts new single, "Save Me," on the Love & Hip-Hop: Hollywood reunion|last=Cuby|first=Michael|date=November 20, 2018|work=ABC News Radio|access-date=November 20, 2018|archive-date=January 28, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200128125134/http://abcnewsradioonline.com/music-news/2018/11/20/listen-now-k-michelle-debuts-new-single-save-me-on-the-love.html|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://thatgrapejuice.net/2018/11/michelle-signs-new-record-deal-releases-song-save/|title=K. Michelle Signs New Record Deal / Releases Song 'Save Me' – That Grape Juice|website=thatgrapejuice.net|date=November 20, 2018 |access-date=November 20, 2018}}</ref>

She announced her fifth studio album, ''All Monsters Are Human,'' in 2019 during her O.S.D. Tour. She also released the mixtape Not 1 Fuck Given on January 1, 2020, as part of her ongoing 0 Fucks Given series.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Samuels |first=Keithan |date=2020-01-03 |title=Stream K. Michelle's New Mixtape 'Not 1 F*ck Given' |url=https://ratedrnb.com/2020/01/stream-k-michelles-new-mixtape-not-1-fck-given/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=Rated R&B |language=en}}</ref> The album was preceded by the single “The Rain,”<nowiki/>which became her first top 10 entry on the US Billboard Adult R&B Songs chart and was later certified Gold by the RIAA.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Folk |first=Antwane |date=2022-07-19 |title=K. Michelle's 'Scooch' Tops Billboard's Adult R&B Airplay Chart |url=https://ratedrnb.com/2022/07/k-michelle-scooch-tops-billboard-adult-rb-airplay-chart/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=Rated R&B |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Samuels |first=Keithan |date=2025-02-25 |title=K. Michelle's 'The Rain' Gets RIAA Certification |url=https://ratedrnb.com/2025/02/k-michelle-the-rain-gets-riaa-certification/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=Rated R&B |language=en}}</ref>

''All Monsters Are Human'' was released on January 31, 2020, debuting at number 51 on the US Billboard 200 and reaching the top five on the Top R&B Albums chart, marking her fifth consecutive top 10 entry on that chart.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-02-13 |title=Final Numbers: K. Michelle, Meghan Trainor, & Kesha Respectively Sold… |url=https://thatgrapejuice.net/2020/02/final-numbers-michelle-meghan-trainor-kesha-respectively-sold/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=..::That Grape Juice.net::.. - Thirsty? |language=en}}</ref> The album received generally positive reviews and was further supported by the single “Just Like Jay,” which also received a music video.<ref>{{cite web |title=All Monsters Are Human by K. Michelle Reviews and Tracks |url=https://www.metacritic.com/music/all-monsters-are-human/k-michelle |publisher=Metacritic |access-date=May 30, 2020}}{{Dead link|date=December 2023|bot=InternetArchiveBot|fix-attempted=yes}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Hare |first=Anders J. |date=2020-01-30 |title=K. Michelle Releases Video For 'Just Like Jay' |url=https://ratedrnb.com/2020/01/k-michelle-releases-video-for-just-like-jay/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=Rated R&B |language=en}}</ref>

In 2022, she announced her sixth album, ''I'm the Problem'', as her final R&B project.<ref>{{Cite web |title=K. Michelle Announces Her Sixth Album Will Be Her Last R&B Album Titled 'I'm The Problem' |url=https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/k-michelle-announces-her-sixth-230734695.html |access-date=January 12, 2022 |website=Yahoo |language=en-US |archive-date=January 13, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220113231252/https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/k-michelle-announces-her-sixth-230734695.html |url-status=dead}}</ref> Its lead single, "Scooch", was released on February 11, 2022, and became her first number-one single on the ''Billboard'' Adult R&B Songs chart.<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/music/chart-beat/k-michelle-scooch-number-1-adult-rb-airplay-chart-1235116579/|title=K. Michelle 'Scooch' Secures Her First No. 1 Song: 'I'm Over-the-Moon Grateful'|first=Trevor|last=Anderson|magazine=Billboard |date=July 29, 2024}}</ref> The album was released on September 22, 2023, through MNRK and debuted at number 21 on the US Independent Albums chart.<ref>{{Cite web |title=K. Michelle {{!}} Biography, Music & News |url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/k-michelle/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=Billboard |language=en-US}}</ref>

=== 2023–Present: Move to Country Music === {{update|date=May 2026}} K. Michelle has long expressed interest in recording a country music album, began previewing material for a crossover project following the release of her previous R&B album, ''I’m the Problem.''<ref name="Ebony Country Interview">{{cite magazine|url=https://www.ebony.com/video/country-music-k-michelle-entrance-genre-interview/|title='Country Music Is Who I Am': K. Michelle Discusses Her Long-Awaited Entrance Into the Genre|first=Emanuel|last=Okusanya|date=June 17, 2024|magazine=Ebony|access-date=July 29, 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=March 13, 2019|title=K. Michelle is Recording a Country Album|url=https://ratedrnb.com/2019/03/k-michelle-is-recording-a-country-album/|access-date=January 12, 2022|website=Rated R&B|language=en-US}}</ref>

In 2023, she made her Nashville performance debut at the kickoff of BMI’s Rooftop on the Row concert series.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-04-13 |title=BMI’s Rooftop on the Row Series Launches Fifth Season with Nashville Debut of R&B and Country Singer/Songwriter K. Michelle |url=https://www.bmi.com/news/entry/bmis-rooftop-on-the-row-series-launches-fifth-season-with-nashville-debut-o |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=BMI.com |language=en}}</ref> That same year, she released the country track “Tennessee” as a bonus song on the album, introducing the material under her alter ego “Puddin’. She co-wrote the song with its producers, Claude Kelly and Chuck Harmony of Louis York.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Folk |first=Antwane |date=2023-09-17 |title=K. Michelle Shares New Song 'Tennessee' |url=https://ratedrnb.com/2023/09/k-michelle-shares-new-song-tennessee/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=Rated R&B |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.vibe.com/music/videos/k-michelle-tennessee-video-1234792897/|title=K. Michelle Finds Herself Some Toxic Country Lovin' In "Tennessee" Video|first=Mya|last=Abraham|date=September 21, 2023|website=Vibe|access-date=July 29, 2024}}</ref> She also appeared on “Country Love Song” with Justin Champagne and contributed to The Judds tribute album, ''A Tribute to the Judds'', performing a cover of "Love Can Build a Bridge" alongside Jelly Roll and Fisk Jubilee Singers.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.vibe.com/music/videos/k-michelle-justin-champagne-country-love-song-video-1234748031/|title=K. Michelle Wrangles Justin Champagne's Heart in "Country Love Song" Music Video|first=Amber|last=Corinne|date=April 12, 2023|magazine=Vibe|access-date=July 29, 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Folk |first=Antwane |date=2023-10-31 |title=K. Michelle Covers The Judds' Classic 'Love Can Build a Bridge' |url=https://ratedrnb.com/2023/10/k-michelle-covers-the-judds-classic-love-can-build-a-bridge/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=Rated R&B |language=en}}</ref>

She performed at CMA Fest in 2023 and returned in 2024, where she appeared on the VIP stage at Nissan Stadium.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Folk |first=Antwane |date=2023-05-04 |title=K. Michelle to Perform at 2023 CMA Fest |url=https://ratedrnb.com/2023/05/k-michelle-to-perform-at-2023-cma-fest/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=Rated R&B |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Nicholson |first=Jessica |date=2024-06-08 |title=CMA Fest’s Friday Night Nissan Stadium Shows: 5 Top Moments |url=https://www.billboard.com/lists/cma-fest-2024-friday-night-nissan-stadium-nashville/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=Billboard |language=en-US}}</ref> In November 2023, she and Jelly Roll performed “Love Can Build a Bridge” live at the 57th Annual Country Music Association Awards where their performance received a standing ovation.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.dgepress.com/abc/pressrelease/luke-bryan-jelly-roll-k-michelle-little-big-town-megan-moroney-old-dominion-carly-pearce-chris-stapleton-tanya-tucker-and-lainey-wilson-to-perform-at-the-57th-annual-cma-awards/ |title=Luke Bryan, Jelly Roll, K. Michelle, Little Big Town, Megan Moroney, Old Dominion, Carly Pearce, Chris Stapleton, Tanya Tucker and Lainey Wilson To Perform at 'The 57th Annual CMA Awards' |date=October 25, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Knq-QqsGx3w |title=Jelly Roll & K. Michelle - Love Can Build a Bridge (Live from the 57th Annual CMA Awards) |date=2023-11-09 |last=Jelly Roll |access-date=2026-05-20 |via=YouTube}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Inman |first=DeMicia |date=2023-11-09 |title=K. Michelle And Jelly Roll Hit Every Note In “Love Can Build A Bridge” Duet At 2023 CMAs |url=https://www.vibe.com/news/events/k-michelle-country-music-award-jelly-roll-duet-1234811347/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=VIBE.com |language=en-US}}</ref> In 2025, she performed “The Star-Spangled Banner” at CMA Fest.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Instagram |url=https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKijcndgQ-l/?hl=en |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=www.instagram.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Stace |first=Madi |date=2025-06-09 |title=CMA Fest Presented By SoFi Unites Fans And Artists For A Powerful Celebration Of Country Music And Giving Back |url=https://cmafest.com/news/cma-fest-presented-by-sofi-unites-fans-and-artists-for-a-powerful-celebration-of-country-music-and-giving-back/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=CMA Fest presented by SoFi |language=en-US}}</ref>

In July 2024, she signed a recording contract with BBR Music Group and BMG Nashville to release her debut country project..<ref name="BBR Signing">{{cite web|url=https://musicrow.com/2024/07/bbr-music-group-bmg-nashville-signs-k-michelle/|title=BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville Signs K. Michelle|first=LB|last=Cantrell|date=July 29, 2024|website=Music Row|access-date=July 29, 2024}}</ref> In August 2025, she released “Jack Daniel’s” as her first promotional country single under BBR Music Group and BMG Nashville.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbrmusicgroup.com/k-michelle-serves-absolutely-stunning-country-debut-jack-daniels/|title=K. Michelle Serves Up an Absolutely Stunning Country Debut, "Jack Daniel's"|date=August 29, 2025|website=BBR Music Group|access-date=September 14, 2025}}</ref>The song peaked at number 18 on the iTunes Country Songs chart. It was produced by Kristian Bush and Jeff Balding, and written by Balding, Ernest, Jordan Dozzi, Rocky Block, and K. Michelle. Following its release, BBR Music Group described the track as an “absolutely stunning country debut” for K.Michelle.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Roland |first=Tom |date=2025-09-16 |title=K. Michelle Distills Her Bourbon Biz Background Into Fiery Country Release, ‘Jack Daniel’s’: ‘It’s a Feel Record’ |url=https://www.billboard.com/music/country/k-michelle-jack-daniels-makin-tracks-1236067451/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=Billboard |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=K Michelle Serves Up an Absolutely Stunning Country Debut, "Jack Daniel's" – BBR Music Group |url=https://www.bbrmusicgroup.com/k-michelle-serves-absolutely-stunning-country-debut-jack-daniels/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=www.bbrmusicgroup.com}}</ref>

== Discography == {{main|K. Michelle discography}}

; Studio albums * ''Rebellious Soul'' (2013) * ''Anybody Wanna Buy a Heart?'' (2014) * ''More Issues Than Vogue'' (2016) * ''Kimberly: The People I Used to Know'' (2017) * ''All Monsters Are Human'' (2020) * '' I'm the Problem'' (2023)

== Tours == '''Headlining''' * Rebellious Soul Tour (2013)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Folk |first=Antwane |date=2013-10-02 |title=K. Michelle Announces 'Rebellious Soul' Tour Dates with Special Guest Sevyn Streeter |url=https://ratedrnb.com/2013/10/k-michelle-annouces-rebellious-soul-tour-dates/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=Rated R&B |language=en}}</ref> * My Twisted Mind Tour (2015)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Samuels |first=Keithan |date=2015-01-04 |title=K. Michelle Announces 'My Twisted Mind' Tour Dates |url=https://ratedrnb.com/2015/01/k-michelle-my-twisted-mind-tour-dates/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=Rated R&B |language=en}}</ref> * Hello Kimberly Tour (2016)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Samuels |first=Keithan |date=2016-05-17 |title=K. Michelle Announces 'Hello Kimberly Tour' |url=https://ratedrnb.com/2016/05/k-michelle-announces-hello-kimberly-tour/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=Rated R&B |language=en}}</ref> * The People I Used to Know Tour (2018)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Samuels |first=Keithan |date=2017-12-19 |title=K. Michelle Announces 'The People I Used to Know Tour' |url=https://ratedrnb.com/2017/12/k-michelle-announces-people-used-know-tour/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=Rated R&B |language=en}}</ref> * O.S.D. Tour (2019)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Samuels |first=Keithan |date=2019-10-01 |title=K. Michelle Announces 'O.S.D. Tour' Dates |url=https://ratedrnb.com/2019/10/k-michelle-announces-o-s-d-tour-dates/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=Rated R&B |language=en}}</ref> * I'm the Problem Tour (2023)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Samuels |first=Keithan |date=2022-12-15 |title=K. Michelle Announces 'I'm The Problem Tour' 2023 Dates |url=https://ratedrnb.com/2022/12/k-michelle-im-the-problem-tour-2023-dates/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=Rated R&B |language=en}}</ref> '''Supporting''' * Ladies Make Some Noise Tour <small>(supporting R. Kelly)</small> (2009) * Blurred Lines Tour <small>(supporting Robin Thicke)</small> (2014)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Samuels |first=Keithan |date=2013-12-20 |title=K. Michelle Joins Robin Thicke's 'Blurred Lines Tour' |url=https://ratedrnb.com/2013/12/k-michelle-announces-tour-robin-thicke/ |access-date=2026-05-20 |website=Rated R&B |language=en}}</ref>

== Awards and nominations == {| class="wikitable sortable" |- ! Year ! Awards ! Category ! Work ! Result |- |2013 |Soul Train Music Awards |Best New Artist | rowspan="8" |Herself |{{won}} |- | rowspan="3" |2014 |NAACP Image Awards |Outstanding New Artist |{{won}} |- |ASCAP Awards |Women Behind the Music |{{won|place=Honored}} |- |rowspan="4"|BET Awards |rowspan="3"|Best Female R&B Artist |{{nom}} |- |2015 |{{nom}} |- |rowspan="2"|2016 |{{nom}} |- |Centric Award |{{nom}} |- |2017 |NAACP Image Awards |Outstanding Female Artist |{{nom}} |- |}

== Filmography == === Film === {| class="wikitable" ! Year ! Film ! Role ! Notes |- | 2014 | ''Rebellious Soul Musical'' | Piper |Executive Producer |}

=== Television === {| class="wikitable" !Year !Title !Role !Notes |- |2012–13, 2016 |''Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta'' | rowspan="7" |Herself | |- |2013–14 |''Love & Hip Hop: New York'' | |- |2014–17 |''K. Michelle: My Life'' |Executive Producer |- | rowspan="3" |2015 |''Love & Hip Hop Live: The Wedding'' | |- |''Punk'd'' | |- |''L.A. Hair'' | |- |2016 |''Stevie J & Joseline: Go Hollywood'' | |- | rowspan="3" |2018–19 |''Leave It to Stevie'' |Guest | |- |''Love & Hip Hop: Hollywood'' | rowspan="2" |Herself | |- |''Killer Curves: Bodies to Die for'' | |- |2019 |''American Soul'' |Martha Reeves | |- | rowspan="4" |2022 |''Marriage Boot Camp'' | rowspan="2" |Herself | |- |''My Killer Body with K. Michelle'' |Executive Producer |- |''Single Black Female'' |Bebe |Television film |- |''Tamron Hall'' |Herself/Guest |Episode: K. Michelle & Tess Holliday |- | rowspan="2" |2024 |''Single Black Female 2: Simone's Revenge'' |Bebe |Television film |- |''Queens Court'' |Herself |- |2025 |''Single Black Female 3: The Final Chapter'' |Bebe |Television film |- |2026 |''The Real Housewives of Atlanta'' |Herself |Main cast; Season 17 |- |}

== References == {{Reflist}}

== External links == {{Commons category}} * {{Official website|http://www.thekmichelle.com/}} * {{AllMusic}} * {{IMDb name|4154643}}

{{K. Michelle}} {{NAACP Image Award for Outstanding New Artist}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Michelle, K.}} Category:K. Michelle Category:1982 births Category:Living people Category:21st-century African-American women singers Category:21st-century American women singers Category:African-American television personalities Category:American contemporary R&B singers Category:American mezzo-sopranos Category:American women hip-hop singers Category:American women television personalities Category:Age controversies in music Category:Atlantic Records artists Category:Delta Sigma Theta members Category:Florida A&M University alumni Category:Jive Records artists Category:Singers from Memphis, Tennessee Category:Participants in American reality television series