She became known for being one half of the musical duo Chloe x Halle with her sister Chloe Bailey. They have released the albums The Kids Are Alright (2018) and Ungodly Hour (2020), and have together earned five Grammy Award nominations. As an actress, Bailey has played a supporting role in the television sitcom Grown-ish (2018–2022). In 2023, she had her first lead role as Ariel in Disney's musical fantasy film The Little Mermaid, and will feature as the young Nettie in Blitz Bazwale's musical drama adaptation of The Color Purple.