44: Kelis – Powerful Women of 2013

From the moment she released 'Kaleidoscope' in 1999, it was obvious that Kelis was not a typical R&B singer. Produced by the Neptunes, 'Caught Out There,' peaked on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart at No. 9 but became a smash hit in Europe. She made such an impact across the pond that she won the BRIT Award for International Breakthrough Act and Best R&B/Soul Act at the NME Awards in 2001.

While she found success abroad, Kelis hoped for the same vibes on American soil and finally felt it with the release of 'Milkshake,' off her third LP, 'Tasty.' Both the album and single were certified gold. With the singer's success growing with each single she released, she started to work with many more artists of various genres including Enrique Iglesias, Busta Rhymes, Annie Lennox, Diplo, David Guetta and her ex-husband, Nas.

More recently, Kelis recently collaborated with Calvin Harris on 'Bounce' for his album, '18 Months.' Her sixth album, 'FOOD,' is apparently complete and the project features the afrobeat-infused single 'Jerk Ribs.' Fans are hungry for its release.