Kelis: Knight “Literally Brings Me Joy”

Since giving birth to her first child last year, singer Kelis has experienced a wealth of change in her life. The Milkshake songstress – who welcomed baby boy Knight on July 22, 2009 – says she never expected the overwhelming emotions that she now feels as a mother.

“Motherhood has made me more selfless and emotional,” she explains. “Motherhood changes the way you look at people and human life.”

Babies make you feel more human. No matter how much it was explained to me, I didn’t understand the strength of my feelings for him. He literally brings me joy.

Kelis, who split from husband Nas while 7-months pregnant with their son, believes that her 4-year marriage, as well as her experiences during the last 14-years have helped to make her more prepared for life: “I’m more prepared about life, but I don’t just think that’s because of the divorce. I’m a mother, I’m 31, it’s because of all kind[s] of things.”

“I started in the industry at 17 and I really wanted to be on Broadway, but my career just happened,” she continues. “I took a break after 2006 because I wanted to do other things, like learning to become a chef, because I love having people over and cooking for them.”

Kelis filed for divorce from rapper Nas, 37, in April 2009, citing irreconcilable differences. The couple’s divorce was finalized on May 21, 2010.