Kehlani Wins 2026 Grammy For Best R&B Performance ‘Folded’

And the 2026 Grammy for Best R&B Performance goes to… Kehlani for “Folded.”

Kehlani was on hand to accept her award during the premiere ceremony, prior to the main telecast. She thanked her fellow collaborators and creatives. Kehlani also took the time to speak about current events happening in America.

“I want to make sure that I say, everybody in this room, and everyone who will be in this room later, is so powerful,” she began. “Together, we’re stronger in numbers to speak out against all the injustice going on in the world right now. So instead of letting it be just a couple of people here and there… I hope everybody is inspired to come together as a community of artists and speak out against what’s going on. I’m going to leave it at that and say, fuck ICE.”

Moments later, Kehlani won another Grammy for Best R&B Song winner for “Folded.”

2026 Grammy Nominees for Best R&B Performance

The Best R&B Performance category highlights some of the most compelling vocal artistry and emotional storytelling in contemporary R&B. Justin Bieber leads with “YUKON,” a track that showcases his smooth, emotive vocals over a minimalist, atmospheric production, signaling his continued evolution as an R&B artist beyond his pop roots. Chris Brown featuring Bryson Tiller delivers “It Depends,” blending Brown’s signature falsetto with Tiller’s moody, introspective style, creating a sultry, contemporary vibe that balances melodic sensibility with streetwise energy.

Kehlani’s “Folded” offers raw vulnerability and exquisite vocal control, combining heartfelt lyricism with a modern production that highlights her introspective songwriting. Meanwhile, Leon Thomas’s “MUTT (Live From NPR’s Tiny Desk)” captures the immediacy and intimacy of live performance, emphasizing his improvisational skill and rich vocal dynamics. Summer Walker’s “Heart Of A Woman” rounds out the category with sultry, confessional vocals layered over smooth, moody instrumentation, reinforcing her status as a leading voice in modern R&B.

“YUKON” – Justin Bieber

“It Depends” – Chris Brown Featuring Bryson Tiller

“Folded” – Kehlani

“MUTT (Live From NPR’s Tiny Desk)” – Leon Thomas

“Heart Of A Woman” – Summer Walker