Keri Hilson, the celebrated artist behind the hit song “Pretty Girl Rock,” has made headlines once again, but this time, it’s not for a chart-topping song or flashy music video. Instead, it’s her heartfelt reflection on the struggles she faced during the height of her career and the personal battles that led her to take a significant break from the music industry.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Hilson bravely opened up about her ongoing fight with depression, the pressures of fame, and how these led to her 14-year-long hiatus. She shared candid insights into the dark period she endured, which came despite her success and recognition as one of the top R&B artists of her time.
The Price of Fame
For many, the success of “Pretty Girl Rock” would have been the pinnacle of their career, but for Keri Hilson, it marked the beginning of a mental and emotional struggle. Despite the accolades and adoration from fans, she felt trapped by the constant demands of the music industry.
“I was also depressed at the new height of my career with the success of ‘Pretty Girl Rock.’ I was just not okay. I was not well, I needed a break,” Hilson explained. She revealed that her journey to stardom started long before her solo career took off. By the time she released her breakthrough album, she had already dedicated years to the industry. From joining her first girl group at just 14 years old, to signing her first major record deal, and spending her teenage years writing hit songs for other artists, Hilson’s career trajectory was fast-paced and relentless.
“I hadn’t taken a break since I was 14 years old in my first girl group. When we disbanded, I went headfirst into songwriting at 17, got my first big check by 18. I joined another group and was also writing while in college,” she shared.
The Burnout
From the outside, Hilson’s rise seemed almost meteoric. But what the public didn’t see was the toll it took on her mental health.
The pressures of fame, the scrutiny from the public, and the demands of being constantly on the go pushed Hilson to a breaking point.
“So I never had a break from 14 to, say, mid-20s. It was already a decade of just pure dedication, and I needed a break. Fame was a beast for me, and I fell into a really dark place,” Hilson admitted. The weight of her success, combined with the constant hustle, led her to step away from the industry—something she initially thought would only be temporary.
“I thought it’d be just a one-year moment, not a 14-year moment, but it turns out it was necessary. I really can’t regret it. I, as a human, needed that time.”
The Struggle with the Music Industry
Aside from the personal battles, Hilson also wrestled with the changing landscape of the music industry. With the rise of social media and increasing pressures to maintain a public image, she started to feel disconnected from her love of music.
“I just wasn’t sure of it anymore. The industry was changing. I love making the art, I love doing music, I love making music, I love performing music — but I didn’t love everything that came with it. I didn’t love the heavy criticism,” she said.
She spoke about how the new demands of the industry made her question whether she could continue. The constant criticism, the pressure to be perfect, and the fear of being misunderstood became too much to handle.
“It’s just not like the old industry now, and that, to me, felt like a threat. It felt like you have to be so careful and so cautious in how you speak, what you say, where you go, what you do, how you’re perceived, things you say or [post online]. It felt like I was playing a game of, ‘How many ways can I be misunderstood?'”
The complexities of navigating fame in the digital age left Hilson questioning if the sacrifice was worth it. Despite her love for music, the emotional toll of public life seemed to overshadow her passion.
A Long-Awaited Return to Music
Now, nearly 15 years after the release of her last album, No Boys Allowed, Hilson is ready to return to the music scene. Fans have long awaited her comeback, and she is finally delivering with her new project, We Need to Talk, a nine-track album that promises to showcase the evolution of her sound.
Although she’s excited about her return, Hilson admitted that the long absence from the spotlight has made her feel both excited and nervous. The music industry has changed dramatically since she left, and coming back after such a long hiatus feels like starting over.
“I’m being completely honest, it feels a little scary. It feels like I’m starting over — I like that feeling. I feel ready. I feel excited,” Hilson confessed. The years away have given her the chance to reflect, grow, and focus on her personal well-being. “I feel a lot of gratitude for the opportunity to still do it. I don’t take that for granted.”
The Power of Mental Health and Taking a Break
Keri Hilson’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health and the need to prioritize self-care. In a world that often pushes individuals to keep going, no matter the cost, her decision to take a break has not only helped her reclaim her health but has also made her return to music feel more authentic and meaningful.
Her openness about battling depression and stepping away from the limelight has resonated with fans and fellow artists alike, shedding light on the importance of taking breaks, seeking help, and knowing when to say “no.”
As she returns to the music scene, Keri Hilson is poised to show the world that mental health matters and that it’s okay to take time off to heal. With a fresh perspective on life and a new album on the horizon, Hilson is ready to embark on the next chapter of her career and inspire others to prioritize their well-being.
Looking Ahead
As Hilson prepares to release We Need to Talk, the excitement surrounding her comeback is palpable. Fans are eager to hear what she’s been working on, and with her undeniable talent and resilience, it’s clear that Keri Hilson’s story is far from over.
Her decision to return to music after such a long break is a testament to her strength and determination. Whether or not her new music will reach the heights of her previous successes remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Keri Hilson’s voice and her journey will continue to inspire others for years to come.
