"Folded" is a song by American singer Kehlani, released on June 11, 2025. It was produced by Andre Harris, D.K. The Punisher, Don Mills and Khris Riddick-Tynes.
"Folded" received positive reviews upon release from music critics, praising Kehlani's vocals and songwriting. Upon release, the song has achieved viral success on TikTok, with fans and notable R&B musicians alike covering or dancing to the song. On July 30, 2025, Kehlani released an acapella remix, titled "(Un)Folded".
Remix EP
On October 22, 2025, Kehlani announced an EP of remixes, titled "Folded Homage Pack" featuring remixes with singers Brandy, JoJo, Mario, Ne-Yo, Tank, and Toni Braxton. The EP was released on October 24, 2025.[1]
Background
Kehlani teased the song during the two weeks before it was released. The post-chorus went viral, with fans also dancing to it on the video-sharing app TikTok.[2]
Composition and lyrics
"Folded" is an R&B song. Over an instrumental composed of strings, guitar and drums,[2][3] Kehlani hopes to rekindle a romantic relationship with their lover.[2][3][4][5] They acknowledge that they may have overreacted in leaving their ex ("I know I didn't have to walk away / All I had to do was ask for space"),[5] before asking them to come pick up their clothes that they have left behind, which have also not been folded, yet.[2][4][5]
Critical reception
Upon its release, "Folded" received positive reviews by contemporary music critics, who singled out the song’s lyricism and vocals for praise. Robin Murray of Clash called it "sensual and alluring".[6] Zachary Horvath of HotNewHipHop commented "Not only is it well written and conveys the proper emotions, the rhythm on it is infectious. The guitar melody hanging underneath the drums adds a sensual element that takes things up a notch. Of course, the vocals are buttery smooth making this a complete record overall."[3] Zsana Joyelle of Soul Bounce wrote "Lyrics like, 'I know it's getting cold out, but it's not frozen,' and, 'I don't need roses / Just need some flowers from my garden / Can't you go back to how you loved on me when you started?,' aren't just poetic, they truly capture the theme of longing. Sonically, the strings and the guitar loop under the beat complement Kehlani's voice perfectly. As always, the Oakland native brings smooth, captivating vocals and layered backgrounds that sound heaven-sent." She added, "A standout moment comes on the second hook. Kehlani makes a few changes to make this one different from the first with new riffs and runs, changes in rhythm and even holding out some notes longer than others. They even flirt with a key change as they shift tones on the lyrics, 'Meet me at my door while it's still open.'"[2]
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