On June 18, 2012, VH1’s reality series Love and Hip Hop Atlanta aired for the first time. The show introduced us to the never ending shenanigans of Stevie J, the iconic “Louis, Prada, Gucci” two step shuffle from Karlie Redd, and hilarious half-english insults from the Puerto Rican Princess, Joseline Hernandez.

Although the original cast was ratings gold, there was a diamond in the rough with raw talent and a reckless mouth that was destined for musical success.

She’s K. Michelle.

And although there are many theories as to why the R&B singer has succeeded, here a few key reasons as to why she has come out on top.

No. 1: She’s a talent.

Yes, true artists still exist, though not always rightfully rewarded. K. Michelle’s style of singing is all her own- picture a Memphisized version of Mary. J Blige, with a dash of Shania Twain, Elvis, and Janis Joplin-and she sings the soundtrack of her life, bringing her real life experiences to her audience. She writes on all of her songs, which is rarity in the industry, and is a classically trained pianist. If that’s not enough, K. Michelle can wield her talent in many ways, from diss songs about former cast mates, to comical interludes on her album. Ultimately, she’s undeniably talented, which is the biggest catalyst to her success.

No. 2: She left the show at the right time.

The number one mistake reality television stars make is signing on for a show without an end goal or over arching purpose for being on the show. K. Michelle knew that she wanted to tell her story of her unfortunate experience of domestic abuse and promote her music career- and she did just that. By the end of her second season, she had achieved her goal, performed her hit single, V.S.O.P., at the reunion, and dipped. Her exit left those that had come to love her wanting more, which eventually led to a myriad of opportunities, including her own spin-off show, K. Michelle: My Life. Granted, she did do guest stints on Love and Hip Hop Atlanta and New York, but her main focus was the music, not the shows. Her music career wasn’t just for a storyline; it was her lifeline.

No. 3: Hate it or love it, that’s just who she is.

K. Michelle, sometimes to a fault, keeps it real every day, all day. She airs it all out, and lets the chips fall where they may. It’s that type of transparency that her die-hard fans (aptly named Rebels) love about her. Between her music and her tweet exchange between fans, people feel like they know her, like really know her. Although she’s not everyone’s cup of tea, it hasn’t affected her climb to success, nor will it ever. Being a slightly polarizing figure comes with a certain territory, and she trudges through it with her boot straps tightened and her head held high.

Hopefully, the current musicians of Love and Hip Hop take notes and follow the blueprint that K. Michelle has mapped out, because she’s just getting started. Her new single “Not A Little Bit” was released on Jan. 22, and the second season of her show will air Jan. 25 at 9:30 pm on VH1. With an album due in March, K. Michelle’s back to reclaim the throne at the top of the charts, and if history is any indicator, I’m sure she’ll make it there just fine.