Biography

Dr. Kelly Glow, Ed.D.

Artist | Author | Hip Hop Scholar

Meet Kelly Glow

Fun. Funky. Full of Energy.

If you don’t usually listen to rap music, that might change once you hear Kelly Glow. Her unique style is fun, funky, and full of energy. With lyrics that are clear and easy to follow, her universal sound resonates across generations — appealing to both hip-hop heads and newcomers alike.

Early Years

Born at King Drew Medical Center in Watts, California, and raised in the heart of South-Central Los Angeles, Kelly Glow grew up surrounded by the challenges common to many urban communities: limited resources, drug activity, violence, and gang culture. Thanks to the strong, steady guidance of her parents, she stayed focused and grounded. In 1991, seeking a better life, her family relocated to Atlanta, mirroring the journeys told in films like Boyz n the Hood and Menace II Society.

In Atlanta, Kelly attended Banneker High School and later transferred to the North Atlanta School of Performing Arts. She found her creative voice early, joining a dance crew called “The Wierdos” and rapping in a male/female duo called “The Funky Twins”. Her crew often took home top prizes at showcases and talent shows, planting the seeds of what would become a lifelong passion.

Musical Journey

Kelly Glow released her debut album Ready for War in 2002, which led to a performance on the main stage of the ELCA National Youth Gathering at the Georgia Dome — in front of a crowd of over 20,000. Her 2015 follow-up, Back to My Future, earned her a Gospel Choice Award for Best Holy Hip Hop Artist.

Her third project, Glow with Grace, showcased a soulful reinterpretation of a classic hymn, while her fourth release, Good Girl Bad World, offered raw reflections on her journey from Compton to the world stage.

Since 2020, Kelly has continued evolving. Her singles like Pretty Girls Dance — a vibrant anthem celebrating educated women with style and swag — and Aye, I’m Still Nervy — a smooth, confident groove filled with lyrical finesse — reflect her willingness to experiment while staying true to herself.

Still, none of these releases fully captured her unique style.

A New Era

So, she took a step back. No new music for a while. Just deep soul work and sonic exploration. Over the past year, Kelly Glow teamed up with innovative producer Zona Simz, diving into a creative lab to craft something undeniably original. Together, they created a bold, fresh sound tailored just for her — a sound that finally feels like home.

Now, as she nears her 49th birthday, Kelly Glow is more energized than ever. She’s not just releasing music — she’s claiming her voice, challenging ageism in the music industry, and proving that rap has no expiration date.

This is Kelly Glow and this is just the beginning of her brightest chapter yet.