The hidden final track. A slow, reflective piece where Cole accepts her flawed life. “It is what it is” becomes a mantra of survival.
The album was both a commercial powerhouse and a critical success: keyshia cole the way it is full album zip extra quality
: The album received "generally favorable" reviews, holding a Metacritic score of 77 . It eventually reached Platinum status, cementing Cole's place in the R&B canon. Track Listing Keyshia Cole: The Way It Is Album Review | Pitchfork The Evolution of Keyshia Cole: A Musical Journey
The lead single is deceptively upbeat. Kanye’s soul-chopped production (sampling The Stylistics’ “You’ll Never Get to Heaven”) contrasts with Cole’s lyrics about outgrowing a man who didn’t appreciate her. It’s a declaration of self-worth disguised as a club track. Musical Style and Influences The album was both