K. Michelle, the Memphis-born songstress, has attained a significant milestone in her career with her debut album, Rebellious Soul, receiving gold certification from the Recording Association of America (RIAA). This achievement marks her first RIAA-certified album and her second overall certification.
Released via Atlantic Records on August 13, 2013, Rebellious Soul made an impactful debut, soaring to No. 1 on Billboard’s Top R&B Albums chart and No. 2 on the Billboard 200. With an impressive first-week sales figure of 72,000 copies, the album quickly garnered attention for its soulful sound and candid lyricism.
The album’s standout single, “V.S.O.P.,” produced by Pop & Oak and written by Priscilla Renea (now known as Muni Long), achieved notable success, peaking at No. 8 on Billboard’s Hot R&B Songs chart. Notably, “Can’t Raise a Man,” the album’s second single, previously secured K. Michelle her first gold plaque in 2017.
In commemorating the album’s 10th anniversary, Rated R&B revisited Rebellious Soul and spoke with producer Warren “Oak” Felder about the creation of “V.S.O.P.” Felder recalled the spontaneous inspiration that led to the sample of The Chi-Lites’ “That’s How Long” and praised K. Michelle for infusing the track with her signature attitude and flair.
Since the release of Rebellious Soul, K. Michelle has continued to push artistic boundaries. In September 2023, she unveiled her final R&B album, I’m The Problem, featuring the chart-topping single “Scooch,” produced by Lil Ronnie. Notably, the album also signaled K. Michelle’s transition into country music, as evidenced by the inclusion of the bonus track “Tennessee,” co-written with Louis York (Claude Kelly and Chuck Harmony).
Embracing her newfound passion for country music, K. Michelle has collaborated with industry heavyweights such as Dolly Parton, Billy Ray Cyrus, and Eric Paslay. Her highly anticipated country album is nearing completion, promising a fresh perspective on her musical journey.
With recent appearances at the 2023 CMA Fest and the CMA Awards, where she paid homage to country legends alongside Jelly Roll, K. Michelle continues to captivate audiences with her versatile artistry and unwavering authenticity.
Experience the groundbreaking sounds of K. Michelle’s Rebellious Soul below as she celebrates this momentous achievement in her illustrious career.