Brooklyn-based musician Kalifa, formerly known as Le1f, has made a significant return to the music scene with his new single “Right Now,” released at the end of May. This upbeat track, infused with rubbery synths and a dance-pop-rock vibe, marks his first major release in nearly a decade. The lyrics reflect a sense of urgency and self-empowerment, as he sings, “What if I break my chains and escape? / I’ll be my own creation / Tired of waiting.”
Khalif Diouf, the artist behind Kalifa, has been on a long hiatus since his last album in 2015. This break is particularly notable in the fast-paced world of pop music, where social media often reduces an artist’s moment in the spotlight to mere seconds. Diouf acknowledges the challenge of returning after such a lengthy absence, especially when many fans may have expected a different sound upon his comeback.
His previous work as Le1f, especially the track “Wut,” catapulted him into the underground music scene. “Wut” was groundbreaking, featuring bold lyrics that celebrated queer identity in a genre that has historically been less inclusive. Lines like “The fever in his eyes, he wanna suckle on my muscle” showcased a level of openness that was rare in mainstream rap at the time. This track not only solidified his place in queer music history but also led to him being labeled a “queer rapper,” a title that had both its advantages and disadvantages.
Reflecting on his past, Diouf recognizes that while being categorized by social identity may have limited his mainstream appeal, it also helped pave the way for younger queer artists. He humorously refers to his influence as having “100 daughters,” indicating the legacy he feels he has left for the next generation of musicians.
After releasing his debut album “Riot Boi” through XL Recordings and Terrible Records, Diouf faced challenges that led to a pause in his career. He describes his experience with a major label as tricky, noting that his initial momentum faded before he could fully grasp the complexities of the music business. This realization prompted him to step back, regroup, and consider a rebranding that would align more closely with his true self.
The onset of the pandemic further delayed his plans, but it also provided an unexpected opportunity for growth. During this time, Diouf immersed himself in music theory and composition, exploring a wide range of musical influences. This period of reflection and study allowed him to clarify his artistic vision and understand how his work connects to a broader musical heritage, from ancient instruments to the sounds of Little Richard.
As he transitioned from Le1f to Kalifa, Diouf faced the challenge of finding the mental and physical space to create. He sought training in both operatic and R&B vocal techniques, which has helped him become more confident in his vocal abilities. Although he finds the label of “singer” somewhat cringe-worthy, he embraces the evolution of his artistry.
In recent years, Diouf has been able to trace his musical roots and gather material for cohesive records that pay homage to genres with deep Black roots, such as rock and disco. He has a clear vision for his future projects, stating that he knows what he wants to accomplish over the next few albums. After such a long hiatus, he feels a sense of urgency to share his new music with the world.
The material he has been creating, he asserts, is of a higher quality than anything he has released before. He describes it as more relatable and refined, emphasizing the stark contrast between his past work and his current output. This newfound clarity and confidence in his music signal an exciting new chapter for Kalifa.
As he steps back into the spotlight, Diouf is not just reclaiming his place in the music industry; he is also continuing to break barriers for queer representation in hip-hop. His journey from Le1f to Kalifa is a testament to his resilience and dedication to his craft, and it serves as an inspiration for both established and emerging artists in the queer community.
With “Right Now,” Kalifa is poised to make a significant impact on the music scene once again, reminding listeners of the importance of authenticity and self-expression. As he embraces this new era of his career, fans can look forward to a fresh sound that reflects his growth and evolution as an artist.
Source: Various
