KenTheMan has never been one to follow the crowd. With her sharp lyricism, unshakable confidence, and undeniable talent, the Houston rapper has built a career on her own terms. Her 2020 breakout single, “He Be Like,” garnered nearly 4 million streams on Spotify, propelling her into the spotlight.
Her 2020 independent EP, 4 Da 304’s, climbed to No. 9 on the Apple Hip-Hop charts and amassed over three million streams within its first 24 hours. Her independent success attracted the attention of major labels and brands, leading her to eventually sign with Roc Nation. However, she recently parted ways with the organization without releasing a collection of work.
Her fans have been clamoring for new music, and she responded last year by dropping singles like “Crazy Bout Me,” which samples Hawk’s 2002 hit “You Already Know.” At the start of this year, she released “Cocky,” and this week she will unveil her new LP, Kinda Famous. This keeps in line with the naming theme of her previous work, but KenTheMan promises fans that this release will bring what they love—and even more. She’s making it clear—she’s not just a moment; she’s a movement.
“Kinda Famous is more than just a body of work—it’s a statement,” KenTheMan says when discussing the meaning behind the title. “With this project, I’m making it clear that I’m not just here for the moment; I’m here for the long run. This project showcases my growth, confidence, and ability to craft unforgettable tracks.”
Compared to her previous projects like 4 Da 304s and What’s My Name, KenTheMan sees this LP as an evolution. “I feel like there’s a lot of growth in this project, many different sides of me. I display more versatility, and there’s a mood for every song.”
Her approach this time was different as well. “I gave myself time to develop and create a project that represents different experiences throughout this past year. I sat with it and made sure I was in love with every song.”
When pressed to choose a favorite track she has difficulty choosing just one. “I can give you four—it’s too many bangers to go with just one. ‘Do It Like Me,’ ‘Can You,’ ‘Try Me Pt.2’ and ‘Gimme More.’”
Though she’s known for her confident and unapologetic style, KenTheMan reveals a new side of herself on this LP, particularly with “Baggage.” “As confident as you are, you can still get your heart broken. I wanted to show people it’s okay to feel and to be with your emotions but still make sure you put yourself first.”
In order to be authentic to that style KenTheMan has decided to be an independent artist. Remaining independent has given her full control over both the creative and business aspects of her career. “Being independent is 100 percent me in control. You get to choose everything—how it looks, sounds, and feels. It’s the best way to display pure artistry. I would rather have it this way. You’re able to get the best version of me.”
That best version of her also includes the ability to show all sides of herself. On the new LP there is a song called “Baggage,” a song which KenTheMan says may surprise fans unfamiliar with seeing her softer side. “The most challenging is paying for everything on your own. The most rewarding is knowing that all the successes are yours and yours alone to celebrate—and of course, my team, because they’re great.”
That team helps her to keep building and cultivating her growing fanbase. She has built up a following with her lyricism and authenticity which are imbedded in each new single she drops. When it comes to balancing confidence with authenticity, she keeps it simple by writing everything herself and treating her lyrics like a diary. As someone who has gone viral multiple times, she doesn’t chase trends—she lets things happen naturally. “You never know what’s going to go viral. It’s not your choice—it’s out of your control and something that’s up to the supporters.”
Right now, she’s not drawing inspiration from anyone specific. “I love, love, love music. I’ve been listening to a ton of R&B lately. Old and new—it just gets me going!”
For up-and-coming Houston rappers, her advice is straightforward: “Drop your music. You can’t see your potential by just listening to yourself. Put it out in the world! Let the world be your canvas, and if you get rich from it, that’s even better! Be brave, be confident—or find another job LOL.”
And her biggest goal for the next year? “To touch two million dollars before the year is over.”
With Kinda Famous, KenTheMan is setting the stage for a major moment in her career. As she continues to evolve and push boundaries, this LP could be the one that takes her to the next level. Whether you’re familiar with her work or just now tuning in, Kinda Famous is an introduction to an artist determined to leave her mark.
This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025.
