With TORI., Tori Kelly expands upon the promise of her previous releases, seamlessly blending influences from the late '90s and early '00s into a sound both nostalgic and forward-thinking.
In the competitive world of pop music, artists need to evolve to make it to the top and stay there. And Tori Kelly looks to stay there with her fifth album, TORI., giving listeners the full spectrum of her talent. It’s a bold step forward for Kelly, who first hinted at her evolving sound with the acclaimed EP tori in 2023.
From the pulsating rhythms of "missin u" to the soulful groove of "cut," she puts together a collection of songs that celebrate the power of perpetual motion, all anchored by her strong, versatile voice. It's a full-circle moment for Kelly, a true representation of her vision. The album's lead single, "high water," is an anthem for uncertain times, blending Kelly's hair-raising vocals with a message of hope and perseverance. Reflecting on her own experiences, Kelly shares, "I thought I had covered it all until I had a health scare... 'high water' is about simply holding on and believing that there will be light at the end of the tunnel." It's a sentiment that so many of us can relate to.
As Kelly lets TORI. loose upon the world, she is eager to embark on the next phase of her career and share her journey with her fans. It's all about her desire to connect with her audience on a deeper level. Since bursting onto the scene, Kelly has won audiences over with her powerhouse voice and undeniable charisma. From her platinum-certified singles to her Grammy-winning albums, she has established herself as a force in pop music. Beyond her music, Kelly has expanded her influence across media, appearing in blockbuster animated films on television shows. Collaborating with a diverse range of artists, from Justin Bieber to Kirk Franklin, she continues to carve out her own path in the industry. With TORI., she’s fully embraced herself as a woman, a writer, a performer, and an artist. It's a culmination of her life so far, setting the stage for what’s to come on this unforgettable ride.