As we've watched in countless movies, high school tends to be a monumental time. From the first moment behind the wheel for some to the first taste of freedom and even the first experience of love, Khalid revisits this seminal time on his full-length debut album.
American Teen takes us through a kaleidoscope of glitch-y soul-driven cinematic 21st century pop and his transient upbringing in a military family. "From beginning to end, it's the story of your average teenager going through a typical day in high school," Khalid explained.
"In this day and age, young people face a lot of hardships, whether they're mental problem, relationship problems, or problems with simply facing reality. I wanted to address that in a language someone younger than me can relate to, but that can also translate to somebody a bit older. High school was the same situation every day, but with a slightly different story."
On the eve of his high school graduation, Khalid created his bona fide hit, "Location", which became a 21st century anthem!
via GIPHY
With Khalid's mum serving in the military, he spent most of his childhood moving from state-to-state and country-to-country. After living in Germany for six years, his family moved to Fort Drum in Watertown, New York during his 8th grade school year. Khalid's mum proved to be a major musical influence on him. She always sang around the house and played classics by Brandy, SWV and Destiny's Child for her son.
With his mum's passion for music as a foundation, Khalid built his own aesthetic cultivated by travel and cultural experiences. Along the way, he became a fan of artists such as Father John Misty, Grizzly Bear, Fleet Foxes and The High Highs. This musical diversity fostered his distinct tone and youthful adventurousness to break traditional barriers.
"With this album, I want to show everyone it's okay to have emotions, it's okay to be happy, and it's okay to be sad. I feel like a lot of people are afraid to open up, and the trend is to be very cold. I'm throwing everything I've ever been through on the table. I'm giving everyone my take on high school and life. I'm very excited for the year, for music, building new experiences, making friends, and coming back to El Paso after everything happens. It's going to be amazing."
Info via Sony Music
Filled Under :
*We reserve the right to delete comments that contain inappropriate content.