Hubbry Logo
Bridget KellyBridget KellyMain
Open search
Bridget Kelly
Community hub
Bridget Kelly
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Bridget Kelly
Bridget Kelly
Bridget Kelly
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Key Information

Bridget Kelly (born April 8, 1986) is an American singer and songwriter from New York City.[2] Kelly, an R&B recording artist, has written songs for Kelly Clarkson. In 2008, she secured a recording contract with American rapper and hip-hop mogul Jay-Z's record label Roc Nation.[3]

Biography

[edit]

1986–2010: Early life and career beginnings

[edit]

Bridget Kelly, who is of Bahamian and Irish descent,[4] was born on April 8, 1986, in New York City. She is a graduate of Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts in Manhattan.[2] In 2008, she signed a record deal with Jay-Z's Roc Nation.[5][6] Kelly has regularly filled in for Alicia Keys, when performing the song "Empire State of Mind" with Jay-Z, including performances on the Friday Night with Jonathan Ross, as well as Later...with Jools Holland show,[7][8] the Coldplay, Viva la Vida tour,[9] and the 9/11 memorial service.[6] Kelly also performed with Jay Z during a performance at the MTV Europe Music Awards 2009. She performed "Empire State of Mind" at Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival as well as Bonnaroo Music Festival in summer 2010, with Jay-Z. Kelly also performed "Empire State of Mind" with Jay-Z on Saturday Night Live on May 8, 2010, as well as Rock am Ring on June 4 and T in the Park on June 12, 2010. She also joined Jay-Z during "Empire State of Mind" at Peace & Love in Borlänge, Sweden; at Summer Sonic 2010 in Chiba, Japan on August 2010, at Chiba Marine Stadium; and at Yankee Stadium on September 13, 2010.

Kelly made her first magazine cover appearance in the September 2010 issue of Honey Magazine. In the interview to go along with the cover shoot, she describes her music as a fusion of R&B, soul and rock with influences coming from Alicia Keys, Alanis Morissette and Pink.

2011–2013: Every Girl and Cut to... Bridget Kelly

[edit]
Kelly performing for U.S. Service members during the 2013 USO chairman's Holiday Tour at Bagram Airfield in Parwan province, Afghanistan, Dec 9, 2013

In early 2011, Kelly and her production team had approached Frank Ocean to write a song for her debut studio album.[10][11] The song in question eventually became "Thinking Bout Forever", which Kelly commented; "it's sort of a vulnerable track and I wanted everyone to feel me on it."[12] In July 2011, Roc Nation stated on the official site that Kelly is closing her album up and the first single would be the Frank Ocean-penned "Thinking Bout Forever".[13] On July 28, 2011, Ocean leaked his demo version of the song onto his tumblr account, with the title reading "Thinking Bout You".[14] The song was then promptly taken down by Ocean.[14]

Kelly has worked with high-profile producers such as The-Dream, Ne-Yo, Jerry Wonda, James Fauntleroy II, Ryan Leslie, and Shea Taylor for her debut studio album. Prior to the album's release, Kelly released her first extended play (EP), titled Every Girl, on October 19, 2011.[15] Kelly's version of "Thinkin Bout You" found its way onto the EP.[11] Kelly was ultimately fine with Ocean's decision, however she noted that she didn't like how most people thought Ocean's version was the original, and how people assumed her version was a cover version.[11] About the confusion of the track, Kelly stated: "Now that push has come to shove, we're going to let the song have a life of its own. I think it's an amazing, well-written record. Frank Ocean is incredibly talented, I will never say anything against that. But at the same time, you know, he's going to do what he wants to do, he's an artist as well."[11]

In August 2012, her debut single "Special Delivery", was released to Urban radio stations. Her second single "Street Dreamin", features American rapper Kendrick Lamar and was released on May 21, 2013. Both songs were Top 40 hits on the Mediabase Urban Airplay charts. On November 26, 2013, Kelly announced she would be releasing her second EP and revealed her debut album was pushed back to a 2014 release.[16] The EP includes six tracks as well as contributions from Jerry Wonda ("Goosebumps"), Pop Wansel, Sam Dew, Elijah Blake, and Cri$tyle.[17] "I speak a lot about love and my feelings on these songs," said Bridget of the follow-up to her 2011 EP Every Girl.[17] "I speak to those who have been in relationships, the good and the bad, and that in the midst of turmoil, finding something you can smile about."[17] The EP, titled Cut to... Bridget Kelly, includes her debut single "Special Delivery" and was made available as a free download on December 17, via her official website.[17][18]

2014–present: Parting Ways with Roc Nation and All or Nothing

[edit]

In June 2014, Kelly confirmed her split after six years with Roc Nation and she is about releasing her album independently. After the split, Kelly released two singles, "I Won't Cry" and "Almost More", which are the exclusive previews of her upcoming music. She is working with Jerry Wonda on the new album and changed the album title from Something Different to All or Nothing, which is set to release in 2017. She appeared on Love and Hip Hop: Hollywood from 2017 to 2018 as a supporting cast member for two seasons.[19] In October 2020, Kelly began hosting the See, The Thing Is Podcast on the Joe Budden Network alongside cohosts Mandii B and Olivia Dope.[20] The podcast now only stars Bridget Kelly and Mandii B after Olivia Dope claimed Joe Budden sexually harassed her during taping, forcing her to quit her position on the show.[21]

Discography

[edit]

Studio albums

[edit]
  • All or Nothing (2017)
  • Reality Bites (2018)[22]

EPs

[edit]
  • Every Girl (2011)[23]
  • Cut to... Bridget Kelly (2013)[17]
  • Summer of 17 (2015)
  • The Great Escape (2019)[24]

Singles

[edit]

As a lead artist

[edit]
List of singles as featured artist, with selected chart positions, showing year released and album name
Title Year Peak chart positions Album
US
R&B 		BEL
(FL) 		UK
"Thinking About Forever" 2011 — — — Every Girl
"Special Delivery"[25] 2012 51 79 102 Cut to... Bridget Kelly
"Street Dreamin"[26]
(featuring Kendrick Lamar) 		2013 89 — — All or Nothing
"Happy for Me" 2017 — — — Reality Bites
"Swear to Gawd"
(with Brooke Valentine) 		2018 — — —
"Lucky You" 2019 — — — The Great Escape – EP
"Single Player Game" — — — TBA
"—" denotes a recording that did not chart or was not released in that territory.
[edit]
List of singles as featured artist, with selected chart positions, showing year released and album name
Title Year Peak chart positions Album
UK
[27] 		SCO
[28]
"My Time"
(K Koke featuring Bridget Kelly) 		2013 52 — I Ain't Perfect
"Let Somebody Love You"[29]
(2face Idibia featuring Bridget Kelly) 		2014 — — The Ascension
"—" denotes single that did not chart or was not released.

Guest appearances

[edit]
List of non-single guest appearances, with other performing artists, showing year released and album name
Title Year Other performer(s) Album Ref.
"Take the World" 2010 Tinchy Stryder Third Strike [30]
"Gotta Get Mine" 2013 Ai Moriagaro [31]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Bridget Kelly

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Bridget Kelly is an American R&B and pop singer and songwriter born on April 8, 1986, in . Kelly rose to prominence in 2008 after signing with , where she frequently performed as a backup vocalist for , notably filling in for on the hit single "" during live shows and events, including the New York Yankees' victory celebration. Her early career also included songwriting contributions for artists like , earning her a Grammy Award in 2013 for Best Pop Vocal Album as a co-writer on the track "Einstein" from Clarkson's album Stronger. As a solo artist, Kelly released her debut EP Every Girl in 2011, and the single "Street Dreamin" featuring Kendrick Lamar in 2013. She released her debut studio album Reality Bites in 2018, including tracks such as "Sedated" and "In the Grey," while appearing as a cast member on Love & Hip Hop: Hollywood in 2017–2018. Since 2020, she has co-hosted the podcast See, The Thing Is. In 2024, Kelly married Jason Hall.

Early life and education

Childhood and family background

Bridget Kelly was born on April 8, 1986, in to parents of Bahamian and Irish descent. Raised in the diverse Chelsea neighborhood of , she grew up in a multicultural household that blended her heritage's influences, fostering an environment rich in varied cultural expressions. From a young age, Kelly was immersed in music within her home, where her family exposed her to diverse genres including R&B, soul, and elements of reggae reflective of her Bahamian roots. Her parents, neither of whom worked in the entertainment industry, first noticed her vocal talent during a family road trip when she was 10 years old, as she sang along to Lauryn Hill's "Killing Me Softly" in the car. This moment marked the beginning of their active support for her singing aspirations. Kelly's family played a pivotal role in cultivating her passion for performance; her father enrolled her in a local church choir shortly after discovering her ability, emphasizing the importance of discipline and commitment to music despite the family's lack of religious affiliation. She began performing publicly as a child, including cover songs on platforms and at neighborhood events, which helped build her confidence and stage presence. These early experiences at local venues like Village Underground and further honed her skills in front of audiences. This supportive family backdrop and initial forays into paved the way for her transition to formal musical training in high school.

Musical training and influences

Kelly attended the of Music & Art and in , a prestigious institution known for nurturing young talent in the performing arts. There, she refined her vocal techniques through rigorous training and immersive coursework, which provided a structured environment to develop her abilities amid a diverse student body. This educational experience was pivotal in building her foundational skills as a vocalist, allowing her to explore various musical expressions while navigating the school's competitive atmosphere. After graduating from high school, Kelly briefly enrolled in The New School's program in but left to focus on her music career. Her early musical influences were deeply rooted in soulful R&B artists, particularly , whose emotive style and lyrical depth captivated Kelly during her formative years. At around age 10, a family road trip introduced her to Hill's music, sparking a passion for singing that blended introspective R&B with soul elements. Kelly also drew inspiration from Whitney Houston's powerful vocal delivery and later incorporated influences from pop-rock figures like and , which added layers of raw emotion and versatility to her sound. Her family's culturally diverse background further exposed her to a range of genres, laying the groundwork for her eclectic artistic perspective. To build her performance confidence, Kelly participated in her local church choir at her father's encouragement, despite the family not regularly attending services, which offered her initial platform for group singing and harmony work. Beyond school, she sought out informal opportunities, performing at open mics in venues such as the Village Underground and , as well as impromptu sessions on platforms. These experiences helped her transition from private practice to public performance, honing her stage presence and resilience in front of live audiences.

Career

Beginnings and Roc Nation signing (2008–2010)

In 2008, Bridget Kelly caught the attention of after performing an extensive audition for executives, singing her original songs, covers, and freestyles for over 45 minutes in a New York studio session. This showcase-like performance impressed , president of , and led to her signing a recording and publishing deal with the label in October 2008, making her one of the first artists on the roster founded by the hip-hop mogul. During her initial years at Roc Nation, Kelly focused on behind-the-scenes contributions, including providing live vocals for Jay-Z's 2009 single "" featuring . She frequently filled in for Keys on tour, delivering the song's soaring chorus to large audiences, though her role remained largely uncredited in the studio version and early promotions. This work honed her stage presence and integrated her into Jay-Z's orbit without a solo spotlight. Kelly's emergence as a performer gained visibility through joint appearances with at major events, marking her public debut. In November 2009, she joined him onstage at the in to perform "," captivating an international audience with her powerful rendition of the chorus. The following year, in April 2010, she reprised the role at the Music and Arts Festival, where headlined and she contributed to the New York anthem amid a massive crowd, solidifying her association with the track.

Breakthrough EPs and collaborations (2011–2013)

In 2011, Bridget Kelly released her debut , Every Girl, through Records, marking her introduction to a wider audience as an R&B artist. The eight-track project, offered as a free digital download, showcased her songwriting and vocal abilities, with contributions from producers like Shea Taylor and writers including on the track "Thinking About Forever." "Special Delivery," a poignant breakup , highlighted Kelly's emotive delivery and peaked at No. 51 on the US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, helping to build early momentum for her career. In 2013, Kelly co-wrote "Einstein" for Kelly Clarkson's album Stronger, earning a Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Album. Building on this foundation, Kelly issued her follow-up EP, Cut to... Bridget Kelly, in December 2013, further solidifying her presence in . The five-track release delved into themes of love, vulnerability, and relationships, featuring production collaborations with , who co-wrote the introspective "Seek & Destroy" from her earlier work and influenced the EP's raw emotional tone. Promotional single "Street Dreamin'," featuring a guest verse from , blended streetwise narratives with smooth melodies and reached No. 89 on the chart, demonstrating Kelly's versatility in fusing R&B with hip-hop elements. During this period, Roc Nation's promotional efforts, including strategic digital releases and tour support following her 2008 signing, cultivated a growing fanbase that appreciated her authentic lyricism and soulful sound, positioning her as an emerging voice in R&B.

Departure from Roc Nation and independent releases (2014–2016)

In June 2014, Bridget Kelly announced her departure from Roc Nation after six years as one of the label's first signees, attributing the split to creative differences and insufficient support for releasing a full-length album. Kelly confirmed the mutual decision in interviews, stating, "Honestly, we needed to part ways," while expressing gratitude for the exposure gained during her time there but emphasizing the need for greater artistic autonomy. This move allowed her to pursue her debut album independently, shifting focus from label-backed projects to self-directed efforts. Transitioning to independence proved challenging, as Kelly described the process as "scary at first" and akin to a breakup after such a long tenure, with some changes feeling "really terrifying" due to the loss of promotional resources and the pressure to handle all aspects of her career. Without Roc Nation's infrastructure, she faced hurdles in self-funding production and marketing, relying on personal resources to sustain momentum from her earlier EPs. To build a direct fanbase, Kelly launched the "The Road to Independence" in July 2014, offering an intimate look at her evolution and engaging audiences through social media platforms to foster loyalty beyond label promotion. Kelly's first major independent release was the EP Summer of 17 on August 6, , a six-track project she co-wrote entirely, marking a deliberate pivot toward introspective content centered on personal growth, maturity, and life reflections. Drawing from '90s R&B influences, the EP featured breezy, feel-good vibes alongside vulnerable explorations of love and , with production from collaborators including Da Internz, Swagg, K-Mack, Bratton, JDot, and Roc. Standout track "Act Like That," featuring Mack Wilds, exemplified the EP's blend of playfulness and depth, serving as a to reconnect with fans amid her newfound independence. The project, released via digital platforms, underscored Kelly's resilience in navigating the indie landscape while prioritizing authentic storytelling over commercial constraints.

Solo albums and television appearances (2017–2019)

In 2017, following her departure from , Bridget Kelly self-released the Time Flies, a collection of 10 previously unreleased tracks that reflected on themes of love, heartbreak, and personal growth. The project featured soulful R&B production with elements of pop and rock, showcasing Kelly's songwriting depth through songs like "Pulling Me Back" and "," which explored emotional resilience and relational dynamics. Critics praised the for its genuine expression and vocal delivery, marking it as a bridge to her full-length work while highlighting her independence in the music industry. Kelly's debut studio album, , arrived in April 2018 as an independent release, comprising 13 confessional tracks that delved into real-life experiences such as tumultuous relationships and self-discovery. Produced with contributions from collaborators like , Jordan Bratton, and Chaz French, the album blended with introspective lyrics, earning acclaim for its raw honesty and impressive vocal range. Standout cuts like "Love You From a Distance" (featuring ) and "To You" emphasized themes of and closure, solidifying Kelly's as a solo artist. Building on this momentum, Kelly released the EP The Great Escape in August 2019, a five-track project that continued her exploration of and escape from personal constraints. Led by the single "Lucky You," the EP featured atmospheric production and narratives of liberation, with tracks like "It's True" and "The Great Escape" receiving positive feedback for their emotional intensity and melodic hooks. Accompanied by a that visualized the songs' storyline, the release underscored Kelly's approach to . During this period, Kelly expanded her visibility through appearances on the reality series Love & Hip Hop: Hollywood, joining as a supporting cast member in season 4 (2017) and continuing into season 5 (2018). On the show, she documented aspects of her music career alongside personal challenges, including relationship dynamics and professional hurdles, which provided fans with deeper insight into her life and artistry. These episodes highlighted collaborations, such as her work with , and contributed to increased public interest in her independent releases.

Podcast hosting and recent activities (2020–present)

In October 2020, Bridget Kelly co-launched the podcast See, The Thing Is on the Joe Budden Network, alongside co-hosts Mandii B and Olivia Dope. The show features candid discussions on pop culture, the music industry, relationships, and personal experiences from the hosts' perspectives as women in entertainment. Early in 2021, the podcast faced a significant controversy when Olivia Dope departed following an on-air incident during a January recording session involving inappropriate comments from Joe Budden, the network's founder. Dope publicly accused Budden of sexual harassment in May 2021, prompting Kelly and Mandii B to address the matter in a heated episode where they reflected on the discomfort it caused the group, though their response drew criticism for centering their own feelings over Dope's experience. This led to a temporary hiatus in full-group episodes as the format adjusted without Dope, but Kelly and B returned shortly thereafter to continue the series with a duo dynamic. In October 2021, Kelly and B amicably parted ways with the Network after completing the first season, opting to produce See, The Thing Is independently to gain greater creative control. The gained traction in this phase, releasing episodes twice weekly on platforms like and , with guests from the music and media worlds. It ran successfully until February 2024, when the hosts announced its conclusion citing creative differences; however, the split escalated into public disputes in March 2024, with Mandii B alleging Kelly had withheld $15,000 in funds and threatening legal action, claims Kelly refuted in interviews as misunderstandings rooted in financial disputes. Parallel to her podcasting, Kelly has maintained a low-key presence in music since 2020, with her musical output being sporadic, featuring occasional guest appearances on other artists' projects and live performances at select events, alongside posts teasing unreleased material and potential future collaborations as of November 2025, though no full-length album has been announced. Her media experience from has informed her podcasting approach, blending with audience engagement.

Artistry

Musical style and themes

Bridget Kelly's music is characterized by a soulful style, featuring emotive vocals that blend vulnerability with strength. Her sound often incorporates polished production elements during her era, drawing on R&B traditions while integrating subtle pop and rock influences for a cohesive, album-oriented listening experience. In later independent works, her production shifts toward a rawer, more introspective aesthetic, emphasizing organic growth and creative freedom that allows her soulful tone to shine without major-label constraints. Lyrically, Kelly's themes revolve around , heartbreak, , , and self-discovery, delivered through narrative-driven songwriting that presents multifaceted personal stories. These motifs reflect her emotional authenticity, balancing triumphs and struggles in relationships and personal evolution, as seen in her EP (2018), where tracks explore the complexities of romance and independence. Her songwriting often evokes a sense of resilience, inspired by classic R&B albums that prioritize full-body immersion over isolated singles. Kelly's heritage as the daughter of an Irish mother and Bahamian father adds layers of cultural depth to her work, though her core remains rooted in urban contemporary sounds with hip-hop-adjacent collaborations. This evolution from Roc Nation's high-gloss productions to indie introspection highlights her adaptability, maintaining soulful R&B as the foundation while exploring broader emotional terrains in later releases like the 2019 EP The Great Escape.

Influences and songwriting

Bridget Kelly's musical influences draw heavily from powerful female artists in R&B, soul, and rock, shaping her emotive vocal delivery and compositional approach. stands out as a primary inspiration, particularly for her piano-driven songwriting and blend of classical elements with , which resonated with Kelly during her formative years at of Music & Art and Performing Arts. Other key figures include , Brandy, , , and , whose vocal prowess and emotional depth influenced Kelly's fusion of with rock edges and layered harmonies. Kelly's songwriting process emphasizes authenticity and , often rooted in personal to convey women's experiences and vulnerabilities. She approaches composition collaboratively, co-writing tracks like "Act Like That" with collaborators such as Jordan Bratton to capture intimate, relatable narratives, prioritizing emotional honesty over commercial formulas. This technique allows her to transform lived realities—such as relationships and self-discovery—into that blend sultry with dynamic production. Her thematic depth and versatility are profoundly impacted by her multicultural background and upbringing. Of Bahamian and Irish descent, Kelly grew up in the diverse Chelsea neighborhood, where a biracial identity prompted her to navigate questions of belonging, finding solace and expression in music as a universal space. This environment, rich with varied cultural sounds, art, and languages, infused her work with a broad palette, enabling explorations of identity, resilience, and urban life that reflect the city's eclectic energy.

Personal life

Relationships and public image

Kelly was in a long-term relationship with James Shipp Jr. from 2010 to 2017, which became a central storyline on the reality series Love & Hip Hop: Hollywood during its fourth season. The couple's dynamic, including Shipp's disapproval of Kelly's evolving musical direction and collaborations, was publicly dissected on the show, culminating in their at the season reunion special in October 2017. Kelly later reflected that the program's exposure of private conflicts, such as allegations, ultimately "ruined" their partnership by intensifying external pressures. Following the split, Kelly briefly hinted at a romantic connection with rapper during the fifth-season reunion of : Hollywood in November 2018, flashing a custom ring associated with him while discussing her dating life. In 2024, she married her longtime partner Jason Hall in a beach ceremony complete with , marking a new chapter in her personal life. Kelly's public image has evolved significantly since her early career as Jay-Z's backup singer, a role that gained her visibility through performances like filling in for on "" during tours and events in the late . She initially faced perceptions as a supporting act rather than a solo force, but her departure from allowed her to redefine herself as an independent, self-directed creator. This shift positioned her as a resilient and outspoken figure, emphasizing creative control and authenticity in interviews where she described the exit as "bitter-sweet" yet liberating. Media attention on Kelly's personal life intensified through her television appearances, where discussions of breakups and romantic challenges drew scrutiny. On Love & Hip Hop: Hollywood, her on-screen vulnerability about relationship turmoil amplified public interest in her off-stage experiences. Similarly, her 2019 stint on the Steve Harvey Show—including a dating game segment and panel discussions on "Straight Talk"—highlighted her candid reflections on past partners and dating struggles, further blending her private narrative with her professional persona. In late 2024, Kelly reflected publicly on the year as one that had "broken" her amid personal challenges, while cherishing positive memories and expressing readiness for 2025.

Health and activism

In the years following her departure from Roc Nation, Bridget Kelly has openly discussed her mental health challenges, including anxiety triggered by the competitive pressures of the music industry. On her podcast "See, The Thing Is..." in a November 2021 episode, she shared experiences of vulnerability and emotional abandonment, describing therapy sessions where she confronted feelings of being overlooked amid peers' successes and systemic inequalities for women artists. Kelly explained how these industry dynamics exacerbated her struggles with self-worth, particularly as an aging female artist navigating limited opportunities. Kelly's advocacy extends to within the music sector, where she has emphasized empowerment and support for female artists facing gender-based obstacles. In 2012, she participated in the Watch Her Work charity event, collaborating with model to promote women's advancement through mentorship and resources. Her co-hosted podcast further amplifies these themes, fostering candid conversations on female empowerment, , and sexual wellness in the industry. Amid the 2020 resurgence of the movement, Kelly engaged in discussions on racial justice and the protection of via her . In the October 2020 premiere episode of "See, The Thing Is...," she and co-hosts addressed high-profile cases like that of , critiquing systemic failures and linking them to broader imperatives for accountability and visibility. These conversations highlighted intersections of race, gender, and trauma in the music world and beyond.

Discography

Studio albums

Bridget Kelly's debut studio album, Reality Bites, was released independently on April 27, 2018. This 13-track effort explored themes of realism in love, infidelity, and personal growth, collaborating with independent producers to create an authentic, confessional sound. Guest appearances from Ro James on "Love You From a Distance," Jordan Bratton on "To You," and Chaz French on "Something" added layers to the record's emotional narrative. Critics offered mixed reviews, praising the project's genuineness and Kelly's versatile vocals but noting its uneven pacing in places. The underscored Kelly's evolution as an , prioritizing raw expression over polished production, and received acclaim for highlighting her matured amid the challenges of independent releases. Commercial performance remained niche, garnering steady streaming attention but no major chart breakthroughs, reflecting the scale of her dedicated fanbase in R&B circles.

Extended plays

Bridget Kelly's extended plays mark key transitional phases in her career, bridging her major-label beginnings with independent experimentation in R&B and soul-infused sounds. These projects allowed her to refine her vocal style and thematic depth, often exploring love, vulnerability, and personal growth through concise tracklists that highlighted her songwriting and collaborations. Her debut EP, Every Girl, released on October 19, 2011, via Roc Nation as a free digital download, introduced Kelly's smooth, emotive R&B to a wider audience. The eight-track project featured notable contributions, including tracks co-written by Frank Ocean such as "Thinking About Forever" and a remix of "In the Morning" with Meek Mill, establishing her as a promising voice in contemporary R&B with introspective lyrics over lush production. This release built anticipation for her full-length work and showcased her ability to blend vulnerability with urban edge. In 2013, Kelly followed with Cut To... Bridget Kelly, a six-track EP released on December 10 through , which delved deeper into raw emotional narratives around relationships and heartbreak. Tracks like "Special Delivery," "Goosebumps," and "Coca1n3 Heartbreak" demonstrated her experimental edge with producers such as Cri$tyle and Jerry "Wonda" Duplesis, incorporating trap-influenced beats and candid storytelling that reflected her evolving artistry during a period of label-backed promotion. The EP's intimate tone positioned it as a pivotal step toward her debut album, emphasizing her growth in vulnerability. After parting ways with , Kelly embraced independence with Summer of 17, a breezy six-track EP released on August 6, 2015, capturing seasonal themes of summer romance and self-reflection. Featuring collaborations like "Act Like That" with Mack Wilds and production from Da Internz and , the project experimented with lighter, upbeat tempos while maintaining her soulful core, signaling her artistic freedom and momentum-building efforts post-label. Kelly's 2019 independent release, The Great Escape, a five-track EP dropped on August 16, further explored escapist motifs amid personal reinvention. Including the "Lucky You" and title track "The Great Escape," it featured atmospheric production that highlighted her matured vocals and themes of liberation, serving as a creative outlet during her shift toward podcasting and multimedia projects. This EP underscored her experimental independence, laying groundwork for later solo endeavors.

Singles as lead artist

Bridget Kelly's singles as lead artist primarily emerged during her time with Records in the early , showcasing her R&B style through introspective lyrics and smooth vocals. Her debut single, "Special Delivery," released in 2012, served as a track from her EP Cut to... Bridget Kelly. The song features a about longing and communication, set over an intricate production, and was accompanied by a directed by Sarah McColgan that depicts an urban storyline of emotional delivery and regret. It peaked at number 51 on the US R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. By November 2025, "Special Delivery" had amassed over 8.7 million streams on , reflecting its enduring popularity in R&B playlists. In 2013, Kelly followed with "Street Dreamin'," a collaboration where she remains the lead artist, featuring Kendrick Lamar. Produced by Shea Taylor and sampling elements from classic R&B, the track was released as a promotional single. Its dreamy production and themes of aspiration and street life were highlighted in a music video released via Roc Nation and Def Jam Records. It peaked at number 89 on the US R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. As of 2025, the single has surpassed 2.4 million Spotify streams, underscoring its role in bridging Kelly's solo work with hip-hop influences. After parting ways with in 2014, Kelly's independent releases marked a shift toward more personal and raw expressions. The 2017 single "Sedated," from her mixtape , explores themes of emotional numbness in relationships, gaining traction through streaming platforms. Post-2014 efforts like the 2018 track "In the Grey," the lead promotional single from her debut Reality Bites, addressed ambiguity in love with a moody video release that emphasized introspective visuals. "In the Grey" achieved around 670,000 streams by 2025, contributing to the album's reception as a mature evolution in her catalog. Additionally, "Swear to Gawd" (2018) highlighted her in a soulful plea, reaching over 410,000 streams and serving as a standalone digital release. These later singles, while not charting prominently, built her fanbase through consistent streaming growth and ties to her broader . Bridget Kelly gained early recognition for her vocal contributions to Jay-Z's performances of "Empire State of Mind," where she frequently filled in for Alicia Keys during live shows and provided background vocals when Keys was unavailable, including an uncredited appearance on Saturday Night Live in 2010. These performances helped establish her as a reliable collaborator in high-profile settings, showcasing her ability to deliver the song's soaring chorus with poise and authenticity. Kelly's featured appearances on other artists' tracks further demonstrated her versatility across R&B, hip-hop, and international sounds. In 2010, she provided featured vocals on Tinchy Stryder's "Take the World" from the album Third Strike, blending her smooth delivery with the British rapper's energetic flow to create a track that highlighted cross-Atlantic collaboration. Three years later, she appeared on Ai's "" from Moriagaro, contributing harmonies that added emotional depth to the Japanese R&B singer's introspective single. That same year, Kelly featured on K Koke's "My Time," a hip-hop single that peaked at number 52 on the UK Singles Chart, where her soulful bridge complemented the track's motivational theme. In 2014, she joined Nigerian artist 2face Idibia on "Let Somebody Love You," infusing the Afrobeats-influenced song with her signature R&B . More recently, Kelly contributed guest vocals to Robert Glasper's "All I Do" from the 2019 Fuck Yo Feelings, alongside and Song Bird, delivering layered harmonies on a jazz-infused R&B track that earned praise for its intimate, collaborative vibe and helped underscore her enduring role in blending genres. These appearances, spanning live support and studio features, illustrate Kelly's adaptability as a supporting , often elevating tracks through her emotive phrasing and industry connections.

References

  1. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/bridget-kelly-mn0002601168
  2. https://music.apple.com/us/artist/bridget-kelly/402165964
  3. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/bubbling-under-madeon-makes-moves-ahead-of-lady-gaga-tour-474578/
  4. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/rihannas-roulette-lands-in-hot-100s-top-10-266734/
  5. https://lifeandtimes.com/congratulations-to-the-2013-roc-nation-grammy-award-winners
  6. https://www.complex.com/style/a/complex/promo-courvoisier-proudly-welcomes-bridget-kelly-to-the-courvoisiology-lab
  7. https://www.billboard.com/music/rb-hip-hop/bridget-kelly-sedated-video-8270466/
  8. https://theatlantavoice.com/bridget-kelly-emerges-with-new-music-visual-for-in-the-grey/
  9. https://www.essence.com/lifestyle/bridget-kelly-husband/
  10. https://mabumbe.com/people/bridget-kelly-age-biography-net-worth-family-relationships-career-highlights/
  11. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/bridget-kelly_b_4314359
  12. https://rollingout.com/2015/10/15/bridget-kelly-freedom/
  13. https://www.vibe.com/features/editorial/bridget-kelly-shares-her-story-hilton-checkers-los-angeles-224180/
  14. https://www.essence.com/festival/2013-essence-music-festival/female-artists-wholl-rock-essence-fest/
  15. https://aintnojigga.wordpress.com/tag/bridget-kelly/
  16. https://youknowigotsoul.com/interview-after-patiently-waiting-her-turn-bridget-kelly-is-up-next-on-roc-nation
  17. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/jay-z-blasts-coachella-with-huge-headlining-set-full-day-one-report-64914/
  18. https://www.rap-up.com/article/2011/10/19/new-music-bridget-kelly-every-girl-ep
  19. https://lifeandtimes.com/bridget-kelly-speaks-on-grammy-win-touring-and-new-music
  20. https://music.apple.com/us/album/cut-to-bridget-kelly-ep/1443620794
  21. https://youknowigotsoul.com/bridget-kelly-seek-and-destroy-written-by-the-dream-produced-by-shea-taylor
  22. https://youknowigotsoul.com/interview-bridget-kelly-talks-upcoming-album-departure-from-roc-nation-indie-freedom
  23. https://ratedrnb.com/2014/06/bridget-kelly-leaves-roc-nation-needed-part-ways/
  24. https://www.complex.com/music/a/dharmic-x/bridget-kelly-leaves-roc-nation
  25. https://thisisrnb.com/2014/06/bridget-kelly-talks-new-album-confirms-departure-from-roc-nation/
  26. https://www.rap-up.com/article/2014/07/23/bridget-kelly-reflects-on-touring-with-jay-z-in-the-road-to-independence-episode-1
  27. https://youknowigotsoul.com/watch-bridget-kelly-road-independence-episode-1
  28. https://www.rap-up.com/2015/08/05/bridget-kelly-summer-of-17-stream
  29. https://ratedrnb.com/2015/08/stream-bridget-kellys-summer-17-ep/
  30. https://genius.com/albums/Bridget-kelly/Time-flies
  31. https://kelandmelreviews.com/2017/02/11/bridget-kelly-time-flies/
  32. https://thisisrnb.com/2017/02/bridget-kelly-releases-unheard-tracks-on-new-mixtape-time-flies/
  33. https://ratedrnb.com/2018/04/stream-bridget-kellys-long-awaited-debut-album-reality-bites/
  34. https://www.rap-up.com/article/2018/04/27/bridget-kelly-reality-bites-stream
  35. https://thisisrnb.com/2018/04/listen-bridget-kelly-releases-long-awaited-debut-album-reality-bites/
  36. https://ratedrnb.com/2019/08/stream-bridget-kelly-new-ep-the-great-escape/
  37. https://genius.com/albums/Bridget-kelly/The-great-escape-ep
  38. https://thisisrnb.com/2019/09/watch-bridget-kelly-releases-the-great-escape-short-film-to-accompany-ep/
  39. https://www.vh1.com/video-clips/scn0uo/love-hip-hop-hollywood-did-bridget-kelly-s-song-with-ray-j-destroy-her-relationship
  40. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8T9IX27QQKI
  41. https://madamenoire.com/1229476/olivia-dopes-cohosts/
  42. https://variety.com/2021/music/news/joe-budden-olivia-dope-sexual-harassment-podcast-apology-1234976058/
  43. https://www.insideradio.com/podcastnewsdaily/joe-budden-s-podcast-network-loses-see-the-thing-is-after-one-season/article_a2fbe660-380d-11ec-889e-673e7ae24ed3.html
  44. https://www.hot97.com/news/bridget-kelly-and-mandii-b-announces-the-end-of-see-the-thing-is-podcast/
  45. https://themorninghustle.com/1345372/mandii-b-to-sue-cohost-bridget-kelly-see-the-thing-is-podcast-receipts/
  46. https://www.essence.com/celebrity/bridget-kelly-new-ep-cut-to-bridget-kelly0listen/
  47. https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/does-jay-z-have-problem-marketing-female-artists-former-roc-nation-singer-bridget-kelly-weighs-1566694
  48. https://love-hip-hop.fandom.com/wiki/Bridget_Kelly
  49. https://soundbetter.com/profiles/26612-bridget-kelly
  50. https://gossiponthis.com/2017/10/16/bridget-kelly-love-hip-hop-hollywood-ruined-relationship-boyfriend-james-shipp-jr/
  51. https://www.vh1.com/news/s3qp3l/bridget-kelly-boyfriend-james-shipp-jr
  52. https://www.vulture.com/2018/11/love-and-hip-hop-hollywood-recap-season-5-episode-18.html
  53. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4YBN89KCjg
  54. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DEPioCluSSV/
  55. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zNJSBuRsJIU
  56. https://www.vibe.com/gallery/bridget-kelly-and-antm-dani-evans-empower-women-at-watch-her-work-event/
  57. https://www.blackenterprise.com/see-the-thing-is-inks-seven-figure-multi-year-deal-with-gumball/
  58. https://www.complex.com/music/a/cmplxjoshua-espinoza/bridget-kelly-reality-bites-album-stream
  59. https://genius.com/albums/Bridget-kelly/Reality-bites
  60. https://open.spotify.com/album/3kMzXCN5ZzljU3k3vL63VX
  61. https://theknockturnal.com/bridgett-kelly-releases-her-sophomore-album/
  62. https://ratedrnb.com/2011/10/bridget-kelly-releases-every-girl-mixtape/
  63. https://genius.com/albums/Bridget-kelly/Every-girl
  64. https://youknowigotsoul.com/bridget-kelly-to-release-new-ep-cut-to-bridget-kelly-on-december-10th
  65. https://www.bet.com/article/5z7w3c/stream-bridget-kelly-s-summer-of-17-ep
  66. https://youknowigotsoul.com/bridget-kelly-releases-new-ep-the-great-escape
  67. https://djbooth.net/songs/bridget-kelly-special-delivery/
  68. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YUse1GFKf3o
  69. https://open.spotify.com/artist/2hsun1GbceH62Hhcj7cp2V
  70. https://www.discogs.com/release/4989414-Bridget-Kelly-Ft-Kendrick-Lamar-Street-Dreamin
  71. https://djbooth.net/songs/bridget-kelly-street-dreamin/
  72. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1iU9gZx_Ho
  73. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3909912/
  74. https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/lifestyle/nightlife/2013/06/21/mary-j-blige-opener-bridget-kelly-no-longer-in-the-background/2446293/
  75. https://rapradar.com/2010/01/23/jay-z-x-bridget-kelly-empire-state-of-mind-nrj/
  76. https://www.discogs.com/release/2824040-Tinchy-Stryder-Featuring-Bridget-Kelly-Take-The-World
  77. https://www.discogs.com/artist/2080242-Bridget-Kelly
  78. https://www.discogs.com/release/22187944-K-Koke-feat-Bridget-Kelly-My-Time
  79. https://open.spotify.com/track/3UBsobFiVXbqZ1hFU16gBI
  80. https://genius.com/albums/Robert-glasper/Fuck-yo-feelings
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.