Kelly Price, an American R&B and gospel singer, has carved a unique path in the music industry. Born in Queens, New York City, Price began her career in 1992 as a backing vocalist for Mariah Carey. Her journey from the background to the forefront of the music scene is marked by significant milestones and collaborations that have shaped her career.
Early Beginnings and Breakthrough
Price's entry into the music world was marked by her work with Mariah Carey, where she provided backing
vocals for several of Carey's hit singles, including "All I Want for Christmas Is You" and "Fantasy." This experience laid the foundation for her future success, allowing her to hone her skills and gain valuable industry exposure. Her breakthrough came in 1997 when she contributed uncredited vocals to the Notorious B.I.G.'s "Mo Money Mo Problems" and Mase's "Feel So Good," both of which were major hits.
The success of these collaborations prompted Price to pursue a solo career. In 1998, she released her debut studio album, "Soul of a Woman," which was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The album's lead single, "Friend of Mine," featuring R. Kelly and Ronald Isley, became a top 20 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying her status as a lead artist.
Continued Success and Collaborations
Following her debut, Price continued to build her career with notable collaborations and successful albums. Her second album, "Mirror Mirror," released in 2000, featured singles like "You Should've Told Me" and "As We Lay," both of which received Grammy nominations. The album peaked within the top ten of the Billboard 200, showcasing Price's growing influence in the R&B genre.
Price's ability to collaborate with other artists is a testament to her versatility and talent. She featured alongside Faith Evans on Whitney Houston's "Heartbreak Hotel," which earned a Grammy nomination. Her work with Kanye West on his 2016 album "The Life of Pablo" further demonstrated her ability to adapt and thrive in different musical contexts.
Gospel Influence and Personal Projects
In addition to her R&B success, Price has made significant contributions to gospel music. Her live gospel album, "This Is Who I Am," released in 2006, debuted at number one on the Billboard Gospel Charts. This project highlighted her roots in gospel music, a genre she was introduced to as a child singing in church.
Price's personal projects reflect her commitment to her craft and her desire to connect with audiences on a deeper level. Her involvement in the "Sisters in the Spirit" tour and the formation of "The Queen Project" with Deborah Cox and Tamia are examples of her efforts to empower women through music and community service.
