What makes Millionaire by Kelis notable?

'Millionaire' received critical acclaim for its innovative sound, reaching number 1 on the UK Singles Chart and earning a Grammy nomination for Best Dance Recording. The song's blend of genres contributed to its impact on early 2000s music and influenced a wave of genre-blurring artists that followed. When 'Millionaire' was released in October 2004, Kelis was transitioning from her debut album 'Kaleidoscope' and its follow-up, 'Wanderland'. This track marked a significant collaboration with the Neptunes, solidifying her position as a unique voice in alternative hip-hop and R&B.

How many songs are on Millionaire?

Millionaire has 3 tracks, running approximately 15 minutes.

Released 22 years ago this October

Millionaire

Kelis · 2004

15 min · 3 tracks · rhythm and blues

A fusion of hip-hop rhythms and soul-infused melodies, punctuated by playful lyrical wit and lush production.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Millionaire (radio edit) — This track features a catchy hook and showcases Kelis's playful lyrical style, making it an ideal introduction to her unique blend of genres.
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Millionaire (instrumental) — The instrumental version highlights the sophisticated production by The Neptunes, allowing listeners to appreciate the intricate layers of sound without the vocals.
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Trick Me (Tiefschwarz Special Trick remix) — This remix transforms the original into a club-ready anthem while maintaining the playful essence of Kelis’s lyricism, showcasing her versatility.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

Kelis's 'Millionaire' showcases strong composition and production but is limited by its single format.

What we noticed

The main track features a call-and-response structure between Kelis and guest artist André 3000, creating a dynamic interplay.
The production employs layered synths and a prominent bassline, giving it a rich, textured sound that blends hip-hop and R&B.
The radio edit is concise, clocking in under four minutes, which enhances its accessibility for mainstream audiences.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This single helped Kelis gain wider recognition with its innovative sound and chart success.
Career context: When 'Millionaire' was released in October 2004, Kelis was transitioning from her debut album 'Kaleidoscope' and its follow-up, 'Wanderland'. This track marked a significant collaboration with the Neptunes, solidifying her position as a unique voice in alternative hip-hop and R&B.
Stylistic neighbors: Erykah Badu· Janelle Monáe· Lauryn Hill