As a founding member of Destiny’s Child, Kelly Rowland’s influence has been a staple in many of our lives. And her music has served as a soundtrack for us all, from childhood to adolescence and well into adulthood. However, the indelible footprint the Houston native has cultivated stems beyond the realm of being a frontwoman as a superstar singer. The multi-hyphenate is also a songwriter, actress, businesswoman, producer, and a voice of advocacy and champion for change within our community.
Her tenacious drive from an early age is undeniable. However, after nearly 30 years in the game, she still resonates with women everywhere, which is a true testament to her artistry as a creative force in the industry. Despite what stage or phase you’re currently going through, one thing is for sure; you’ll gravitate to the mom of two because, just like you and I, she is also fulfilling several roles in her day-to-day life. From mothering to work demands, marriage, and most importantly, tending to individual needs, we are all learning and growing daily, including the one and only Kelly Rowland.
21Ninety caught up with the songstress to talk about all things motherhood, living in alignment with your greater purpose, and the importance of celebrating the small wins along the way as we all try to navigate this thing called life.
Dontaira Terrell: Can you tell me what prompted your collaboration between you and Dawn Powerwash?
Kelly Rowland: Between having a newborn, taking care of my business, and working during the day, I just wanted to have time for my family still. Whatever allows me to do so, I like to incorporate that into my life. So actually incorporating this Dawn Powerwash Dish Spray into my life was easy because it cut my time doing dishes in less than half.
DT: Recently turning 40. What are you most excited about at this time in your life?
KR: Traveling and more projects. More opportunities to be creative, whether that’d be film or TV. Investments make me excited. Saving this money makes me excited, and figuring out different money moves makes me excited for sure!
DT: If you had one extra hour in the day, what would you do?
KR: Ooh, an extra hour in the day! I would probably sleep right now because I have a newborn. I don’t get a lot of time to sleep. I’m waking up every three hours to feed him, or pump, or whatever, and that hour of sleep would be delightful.
DT: What was your mindset going into this new chapter from being a mom of one to becoming a mom of two?
KR: I’m still learning. I’m literally taking all of the advice out there. I ask people who have two and three kids, ‘How are you doing it?’ because it’s very real to want to have time for yourself and have time for your husband and your kids. I’m not eight people. I’m only one person. I’m just trying to figure out who needs what and making sure that everyone is full. My cup is full, my husband’s cup is full, and my son’s cups are full.
I need all of those cups. They all work together in the most beautiful way. So I need to make sure that one is not lacking. But, of course, some do lack on some days, and some don’t. But you just find a way to fill each one by the day. You figure it out. That’s what makes women superheroes.
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DT: That actually brings me to my next question. You’ve often been vocal about the heroes in your life. But how do you feel about being celebrated as a hero to so many people? Especially women from all walks of life?
KR: Wow. Above anything, I am honored because I feel like I’m just like them; I’m still figuring it out. Maybe that’s where they feel seen or where they feel we are alike. I try to be as honest and authentic about that as possible. But I’m honored, super honored.
DT: When I was younger, I just knew by a certain age I was going to have everything figured out.
KR: Oh! Me too! I absolutely did. I’m like, ‘Who cultivated the lie?’ (laughs)
DT: I’m curious; happiness means many things to many people, but what does happiness personally mean for you?
KR: Family, love, creativity, and cuddles.
DT: Would you say that’s where you draw your energy and source of inspiration when things get difficult?
KR: Absolutely. Those things literally fill me up, and I’m so grateful because my family is my driving force. It actually pours into my creativity. My creativity gives me life, so it’s just like the circle that keeps on giving.
DT: What are the biggest lessons your sons have taught you that you carry with you and will continue to do so for years to come?
KR: Intuition, patience, and being present.
DT: Can you fill in the blank and finish this sentence? Why didn’t anyone tell me [blank] about motherhood?
KR: That I would worry about them 24 hours a day, it’s not just when they’re sick or when they fall or anything like that, you just worry about them constantly. I wouldn’t necessarily say worry, but you’re always concerned. You’re concerned if they’re happy. You’re concerned if someone hurt them, concerned for everything because it’s literally like having your heart walk around outside of your body.
DT: Do you have any parenting words of wisdom you can offer future or first-time mothers?
KR: Be patient with yourself. We don’t get a rule book on this. It’s not easy, but it is so rewarding. When you figure things out, give yourself a pat on the back and tell yourself, ‘I’m a bad mother; shut your mouth.’ Do you know what I mean?
Being patient with yourself is really important because there are some things our parents didn’t teach us or they wanted to be that kind of teacher, but they didn’t have the capacity to. So you’re learning it in your generation and in your own timing. I’d say, listen to your instincts and listen to your kids. It’s a blessing being a parent. Take it one day at a time because you’re figuring this thing out as you go.