Jhené Aiko is a celebrated American R&B singer-songwriter and rapper whose career has evolved impressively since its inception. She began her musical journey in 2002 as a backing vocalist for the R&B group B2K, where she quickly garnered attention for her unique voice and stage presence. Although her debut album was shelved, Aiko’s early contributions to the group and her appearances in music videos laid a strong foundation for her future success.
In 2011, Aiko made a triumphant return to music with her mixtape “Sailing Soul(s),” which showcased her songwriting prowess and featured collaborations with prominent artists like Drake and Kanye West. This project marked her re-entry into the industry and led to her signing with No I.D.’s ARTium Recordings, an imprint of Def Jam Recordings. Her mainstream breakthrough came with the single “Beware,” a collaboration with Big Sean, which became her first top 40 hit on the Billboard Hot 100.
Aiko’s debut EP, “Sail Out,” released in 2013, further solidified her status as a rising star in R&B, producing the quintuple platinum hit “The Worst.” Her subsequent studio albums, “Souled Out” (2014), “Trip” (2017), and “Chilombo” (2020), received critical acclaim and commercial success, with “Chilombo” earning three Grammy nominations, including Album of the Year.
Throughout her career, Aiko has been recognized for her distinctive sound, blending alternative R&B with elements of hip-hop and psychedelic music. Her artistry is characterized by emotive lyrics and a captivating vocal style, making her a significant figure in contemporary music. With numerous awards and a dedicated fanbase, Jhené Aiko continues to inspire and influence the music industry.