The women of R&B aren't coming to play this summer – especially not Kiana Lede. On Friday (June 16), the songstress shared her highly anticipated sophomore album, Grudges, which marks her first full-length effort since 2020's KIKI. Her debut LP became an immediate fan favourite, thanks to titles like "Mad At Me," "Forfeit" featuring Lucky Daye, "Chocolate" with Ari Lennox," and "Second Chances" alongside 6LACK.
For today's drop, Lede has brought on an equally impressive roster of collaborators. She and Ella Mai connected on the previously released "Jealous" single, which was also accompanied by solo efforts like "Irresponsible" and more recently, "Deeper." Bryson Tiller makes an appearance on "Gone," and near the end of the 18-track effort, Khalid lends his talents to "Where You Go." As noted on the opening song, "Bitter B**ch - INTROlude," we hear several toxic viewpoints throughout the lyrics, proving that it may just be an "Act Bad" summer after all.
Kiana Lede's Grudges Album is Here
During an interview with Vibe, Lede spoke candidly about the creative process behind her sophomore release. "Grudges actually has multiple meanings in this album. Obviously, there’s the [literal one]. I’m a bitter b**ch [who] definitely [has] grudges. I hold them very well. I’m working on it. I’m in therapy," the 26-year-old shared. "I want fans to be able to acknowledge that it’s okay to be f**ked up, but you also have to call it, name it and work on it. For a lot of people like me, especially an Aries, it’s hard not to hold a grudge," the singer added when asked what she hopes listeners take away from her work.
"It’s always about learning and growth and I would love for people to be able to create a safe space, or twerk in their room. I embrace a lot of emotions in this album, so I really just want people to call [out] your weaknesses and traumas but also enjoy working through those things, and accept it and grow from it. Tour will be coming at the end of the year," she also confirmed. Stream Kiana Lede's new Grudges album on Spotify above, or find it on Apple Music here. After you've listened, let us know what your top three favourite titles from the tracklist are in the comments. For more HNHH release recommendations, make sure to check back later this weekend.
Grudges Tracklist:
- Bitter B**ch - INTROlude
- Irresponsible
- Promise Me
- Gone (with Bryson Tiller)
- Gemini Slander
- LMK
- Jealous (with Ella Mai)
- Self-aware
- Focus
- Damage
- Too Far
- Deeper
- Grudges (feat. Kiki & Friends)
- Deserve
- Same Type
- Where You Go (with Khalid)
- Closure
- Magic
[Via]