Kelly Rowland has spent over two decades proving that she is a formidable force in her own right. From her roots in one of the best-selling girl groups of all time to her global success as a solo artist, Rowland has masterfully navigated the worlds of R&B, Pop, and Dance music. Known for her “sultry and sweet” vocal tone and a relentless work ethic, she has built a catalog that balances intimate soul with high-octane international anthems.
Rather than ranking these tracks, we are presenting them in chronological order. This timeline tracks her transition from the acoustic-soul of her debut to her reign as an international dance-pop icon and her eventual return to the gritty, honest R&B that her core fans adore.
“Dilemma” (with Nelly)
Album: Simply Deep (2002)
While technically a collaboration, “Dilemma” was the spark that ignited Kelly’s solo career. Released during a Destiny’s Child hiatus, the song became a global phenomenon, spending ten weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Kelly’s sweet, melodic response to Nelly’s grit created a blueprint for the “Thug-Soul” duet that dominated the early 2000s.
“Stole”
Album: Simply Deep (2002)
For her first proper solo single, Kelly took a significant creative risk. Moving away from the typical R&B tropes, “Stole” was an “alternative-soul” mid-tempo that addressed heavy themes of school violence and lost potential. The acoustic-driven production allowed her vocal vulnerability to shine, proving she was an artist with a message.
“Like This” (feat. Eve)
Album: Ms. Kelly (2007)
After a long wait for her second album, Kelly returned with a club-ready anthem produced by Polow da Don. Featuring a sharp verse from Eve, “Like This” was the perfect re-introduction. It leaned into a more aggressive, brassy R&B sound that felt fresh for 2007 and helped Ms. Kelly debut in the top ten of the Billboard 200.
“Work”
Album: Ms. Kelly (2007)
Originally a slick, funk-inspired R&B track on her album, “Work” became an international smash thanks to a bhangra-infused remix by The Freemasons. The song’s high energy and Kelly’s assertive delivery made it a favorite in clubs across Europe and Australia, showcasing her burgeoning status as a global performer.
“When Love Takes Over” (with David Guetta)
Album: One Love (2009)
This collaboration didn’t just change Kelly’s career; it changed the landscape of modern pop. By merging her soulful vocals with David Guetta’s house production, they pioneered the “EDM-Pop” wave that would define the next decade. The song earned a Grammy Award and became a #1 hit in over ten countries.
“Commander” (feat. David Guetta)
Album: Here I Am (2011)
Following the success of their first collaboration, Kelly and Guetta reunited for this darker, high-energy dance track. “Commander” solidified Kelly’s “Dance Queen” era. It was a vocal tour de force that demanded attention on the dance floor and signaled a more confident, authoritative era in her career.
“Motivation” (feat. Lil Wayne)
Album: Here I Am (2011)
Just when the world labeled her a dance artist, Kelly returned to her R&B roots with “Motivation.” This seductive, slow-burning record, produced by Jim Jonsin and Rico Love, became the biggest R&B hit of her solo career. It topped the R&B charts for seven weeks and earned a Grammy nomination, reminding everyone that she is first and foremost a soul singer.
“Keep It Between Us”
Album: Here I Am (2011)
A hidden gem for the R&B purists, “Keep It Between Us” is a masterclass in mid-tempo soul. The song’s understated production and Kelly’s intimate vocal delivery captured the “quiet storm” aesthetic perfectly. It remains a fan favorite for its smooth, effortless vibe.
“Dirty Laundry”
Album: Talk a Good Game (2013)
This is arguably the most honest song in Kelly’s entire catalog. Produced by The-Dream, “Dirty Laundry” saw Kelly opening up about the complexities of her past, including her relationship with her “sister” Beyoncé and personal domestic struggles. The raw, piano-led ballad received critical acclaim for its bravery and emotional transparency.
“Kisses Down Low”
Album: Talk a Good Game (2013)
Produced by Mike WiLL Made-It, this track showcased a playful, contemporary side of Kelly’s R&B. With a heavy bassline and a catchy, repetitive hook, it became a radio staple and proved she could easily navigate the “Trap-Soul” sounds of the 2010s while maintaining her signature class.
Honorable Mentions
Kelly Rowland’s career is deep and varied. These ten tracks further illustrate her range across genres and her ability to deliver hits alongside industry legends:
“Can’t Nobody” (Simply Deep, 2003)
“Train on a Track” (Simply Deep, 2003)
“Here We Go” (Trina feat. Kelly Rowland) (Glamorest Life, 2005)
“Ghetto” (feat. Snoop Dogg) (Ms. Kelly, 2007)
“Daylight” (feat. Travis McCoy) (Ms. Kelly: Diva Deluxe, 2008)
“Rose Colored Glasses” (Here I Am, 2011)
“Lay It On Me” (feat. Big Sean) (Here I Am, 2011)
“Ice” (feat. Lil Wayne) (Non-Album Single, 2012)
“You Changed” (feat. Beyoncé & Michelle Williams) (Talk a Good Game, 2013)
“Coffee” (Non-Album Single, 2020)
Kelly Rowland’s journey is one of resilience and evolution. Whether she is dominating the dance charts or baring her soul on an R&B ballad, her voice remains an essential part of the musical landscape.