"The Way It Is" showcases Cole's impressive vocal range and emotional depth, drawing inspiration from classic R&B and soul. The album's production, handled by Cole and her then-husband Daniel "Jigger" Punter, among others, features a mix of smooth, atmospheric soundscapes and more upbeat, hip-hop-infused tracks. This blend of styles helped to create a distinctive sound that set Cole apart from her contemporaries.
Released on June 21, 2005, by A&M Records and Interscope Records, The Way It Is is Keyshia Cole's debut studio album. The album serves as a raw and unfiltered exploration of tumultuous romantic relationships, showcasing Cole's powerful vocals and songwriting prowess.
A duet with a male vocalist (often uncredited in early presses) about rebuilding trust after betrayal. The harmonized runs in the outro are pure 2005 R&B bliss. keyshia cole the way it is full album zip extra quality
Two decades after its release, The Way It Is is rightfully celebrated as a classic. The album was not just a commercial success but a cultural touchstone. In 2025, to mark its 20th anniversary, the album was reissued on vinyl, signaling its enduring demand among collectors and new generations of fans who continue to discover its timeless anthems.
Nearly two decades after its release, The Way It Is remains a touchstone of 2000s R&B. It’s an album that helped define an era and launched the career of an artist who, as Andy Kellman presciently predicted, “could be around for a while”. The album’s themes of betrayal, heartbreak, and resilience continue to resonate with new generations of listeners, who find their own struggles reflected in Cole’s powerful lyrics. "The Way It Is" showcases Cole's impressive vocal
– A beautiful, concluding gospel-tinged ballad that brings the album to a hopeful, triumphant close. Experiencing "Extra Quality" Audio
Born Keyshia Su'anne Cole on October 17, 1985, in Oakland, California, Keyshia grew up surrounded by music. Her mother, a jazz singer, and her father's love for soul and R&B, exposed Keyshia to a diverse range of musical influences from a young age. After dropping out of high school, Keyshia pursued a career in music, eventually signing with A&M Records in 2002. Under the guidance of mentor and producer, Jermaine Dupri, Keyshia honed her craft, developing the distinctive vocal style and lyrical honesty that would become her trademark. Released on June 21, 2005, by A&M Records
In conclusion, "The Way It Is" remains a timeless classic in the R&B canon, a testament to Keyshia Cole's innovative spirit and artistic vision. Two decades on, the album continues to captivate listeners with its raw emotion, memorable melodies, and inspiring message of self-empowerment.
(featuring Eve) – A high-energy collaboration originally featured on the Barbershop 2: Back in Business soundtrack.