What makes While We Wait by Kehlani notable?

While We Wait was well-received by critics, debuting at number 11 on the Billboard 200 chart and earning praise for its introspective lyrics and production quality. The EP also highlighted Kehlani's influence within the genre, contributing to conversations around vulnerability and authenticity in music, especially among female artists. Released on January 1, 2019, While We Wait came during a significant phase in Kehlani's career following her critically acclaimed debut album, SweetSexySavage. This project served as a transitional moment, showcasing her evolution as an artist and solidifying her presence in the contemporary R&B landscape while also reflecting on personal growth and motherhood.

Who is While We Wait for?

While We Wait works well if you're into intimate storytelling through melodies, steady pacing for reflective moments and for late-night solitude.

How many songs are on While We Wait?

While We Wait has 9 tracks, running approximately 31 minutes.

While We Wait

Kehlani · 2019

31 min · 9 tracks · contemporary R&B

A lush tapestry of contemporary R&B infused with vulnerable storytelling and heartfelt melodies that resonate deeply.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Nunya — This track features a catchy hook layered over sharp lyrics that address self-worth and moving on from toxic relationships, encapsulating the EP's themes of empowerment.
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Footsteps — Opening the EP, this song utilizes a blend of smooth vocals and rich instrumentation to set a reflective tone while addressing personal challenges and growth.
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Butterfly — This track showcases Kehlani's emotional depth through its minimalist production and poignant lyrics about love and transformation, making it a standout moment on the EP.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

While We Wait showcases strong songwriting and production, but its impact within the genre is moderate.

What we noticed

The first three tracks establish a consistent mid-tempo groove, while the fourth track introduces a more upbeat rhythm.
Several songs feature layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in 'Nunya' and 'RPG'.
The album closes with 'Love Language', which shifts to a slower tempo and features a minimalist arrangement, providing a reflective ending.

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: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

intimate storytelling through melodies
steady pacing for reflective moments
for late-night solitude
brief tracks for quick listens
emotional connection in every song

Maybe skip if you

prefer high-energy, upbeat vibes
want longer, sprawling albums

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on January 1, 2019, While We Wait came during a significant phase in Kehlani's career following her critically acclaimed debut album, SweetSexySavage. This project served as a transitional moment, showcasing her evolution as an artist and solidifying her presence in the contemporary R&B landscape while also reflecting on personal growth and motherhood.
Stylistic neighbors: SZA· H.E.R.· Jhené Aiko