“While We Wait” Review

By: Tosin Faseemo

Since the 2017 release of her “SweetSexySavage” album, R&B musician Kehlani has kept busy by featuring on songs for other artists, releasing singles, and dropping hints of an upcoming album on social media. She is also expecting a child. Despite this hectic schedule, she released “While We Wait,” a cleverly titled mixtape to hold her fans over until her next album release. The result is a refreshing reminder of Kehlani’s dedication to her craft.

The mixtape begins with “Footsteps,” featuring Musiq Soulchild. His vocals provide a nostalgic tone to the song, reminding listeners of the soulful tunes of the early 2000s. Next is “Too Deep,” which details a casual relationship that becomes serious too quickly. Beginning with “I argue with my side thing/Way more than my main thing,” Kehlani makes it clear that this emotionally draining affair is not something she expected or desired. Her assertive tone continues in the next couple of songs. On “Nunya,” she demands her ex-lovers respect her right to privacy and leave her alone; then she expresses an expectation of genuine commitment from her partner on “Morning Glory.” 

The next half of the mixtape reverts to a more current sound. “Feels” balances Kehlani’s honest tone with cool, contemporary production. Features from Ty Dolla $ign and 6lack on “Nights Like This” and “RPG” also contribute to this modern vibe. 

Kehlani’s “While We Wait” mixtape proves the artist’s adaptability, as she combines early and recent R&B influences to create a project that is equal parts classic and inventive. Fans can be certain that her next album will not disappoint.