Ari Lennox has always been a voice of authenticity, both in her music and her representation of Black womanhood. Now, the Grammy-nominated R&B singer is embracing a new chapter in her career and personal life—one that highlights her connection to her natural beauty and celebrates her evolution as an artist. Earlier this month, Lennox partnered with KISS Colors & Care to launch a campaign for their new Edge Fixer Extreme, specifically formulated for 4C hair, and the versatile Edge Fixer Wax Stick, products that reflect her own journey of self-care and simplicity.

For Lennox, the partnership with KISS Colors & Care is more than just an endorsement—it’s a nod to her own experience growing up. “It’s an honor because I’ve loved the company ever since I was young,” she told Blavity in a recent interview. The collaboration underscores the importance of diversity in the hair-care industry, something Lennox has long been vocal about. The brand’s focus on products that cater to the specific needs of natural Black hair resonates deeply with the singer, who has spent much of her life navigating the challenges and joys of maintaining her own natural hair.

While Lennox has embraced a simpler approach to hairstyling, she’s quick to point out that low-maintenance doesn’t mean compromising on care. Her go-to styles often involve minimal manipulation, something she pairs with the brand’s Silky Satin Edge Scarf or Soft Satin Wrap Scarf to keep her hair healthy and protected. “For girls like me that don’t really like to do too much, it’s nice to put my hair in a pineapple, do some baby hair, and add a little pizzazz with their edge control and that extra hold,” Lennox explained, emphasizing the importance of products that work for her lifestyle.

The singer’s relationship with her hair hasn’t always been easy. As a child, Lennox recalls the difficulties she faced when her hair was relaxed, leading to damage that ultimately inspired her to go natural. “It’s no shade to my family, I just don’t think they knew what to do with my hair,” she said, remembering how her hair began breaking off after receiving a relaxer. By the time she was a teenager, she had fully embraced her natural hair, a decision that continues to shape how she presents herself both on stage and off.

Lennox’s approach to her hair mirrors her approach to her music—authentic, real, and unapologetic. As she prepares to release her upcoming single, “Smoke,” Lennox is stepping into a new creative space, one that reflects her growth as an artist. “I’m really excited about it because I’m not being ‘Ms. Sweet Ari’ that I’ve always been,” she shared. Known for her sultry R&B tracks, Lennox is now embracing a more raw, unfiltered side of herself, one that reflects her current mindset. “I’m working on my boundaries and really paying attention to myself,” she said, adding that she’s exploring themes beyond romance and relationships in her music.

“I’m singing about real s**t,” Lennox said, proud of how her new music showcases a different side of her personality. She’s no longer focused on being a people pleaser, instead allowing herself to express emotions that have long been simmering beneath the surface. This new phase in her career marks a bold step forward, one that aligns with her personal journey of self-discovery and self-expression.

Lennox’s evolution, both musically and personally, has resonated with her fans, who see in her a reflection of their own struggles and triumphs. Through her partnership with KISS Colors & Care and her candid approach to her craft, Lennox continues to inspire others to embrace their true selves, whether through music or the everyday rituals of self-care.