The Rise of Khalid in the R&B Music Scene
Music can build communities
In the ever-changing landscape of R&B, few artists have made as big an impact as Khalid. With his smooth vocals, emotionally honest lyrics, and genre-fluid sound, he’s carved out a lane that feels entirely his own. Since bursting onto the scene as a teenager, Khalid has captured hearts around the world and continues to push R&B into new territory. Let’s take a look at his journey to the top and the mark he’s left on the music world so far.
Early Beginnings
Khalid Donnel Robinson was born in 1998 in Fort Stewart, Georgia, but his upbringing was anything but stationary. As the son of a military mother, Khalid moved frequently, eventually settling in El Paso, Texas—the place that would shape his sound and identity as an artist.
It was in El Paso that he began uploading music to SoundCloud, experimenting with melodies and emotions in his bedroom. His early songs reflected a youthful blend of vulnerability and confidence, laying the groundwork for what would soon become a major breakthrough.
Breakthrough with "Location"
In 2016, Khalid dropped the now-iconic single “Location.” The track’s smooth, bass-heavy production and simple yet emotionally honest lyrics instantly resonated with listeners. It quickly went viral, landing on playlists and gaining attention from major labels.
The song’s success wasn’t just luck—it was a moment that captured what Gen Z was feeling: the need for connection in a digital world. “Location” went triple platinum and set the stage for his debut project.
Debut Album: American Teen
In 2017, Khalid released his first full-length album, American Teen. The project blended R&B with pop, soul, and electronic textures, showcasing Khalid’s ability to move across genres without losing his identity. Tracks like “Young Dumb & Broke,” “Saved,” and “8TEEN” became anthems for a new generation navigating love, youth, and uncertainty.
The album earned Khalid five Grammy nominations, a platinum plaque, and a spot on nearly every “artists to watch” list of the year. But more than accolades, it marked the start of a new era in R&B—one led by a new kind of storyteller.
Collaborations and Awards
Khalid didn’t just stop with his solo work. His voice became a go-to for major collaborations across genres:
“Silence” with Marshmello (EDM)
“Eastside” with Benny Blanco and Halsey (pop)
“Lovely” with Billie Eilish (alt-pop)
“Talk” with Disclosure (electro-R&B)
Each collab showed off his adaptability, while still holding onto the introspective core that defines his music. His accolades include multiple Billboard Music Awards, MTV VMAs, and Grammy nominations, all before the age of 25.
Impact on the R&B Genre
Khalid’s impact goes beyond chart positions. He’s redefined what modern R&B looks and sounds like. By fusing electronic beats, soft pop melodies, and intimate lyricism, he’s introduced the genre to younger, more diverse audiences.
He’s also part of a new wave of male R&B artists who embrace emotional vulnerability, challenging outdated notions of masculinity in music. Songs like “Better” and “Right Back” show that you can be soft, honest, and still deeply cool.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Khalid
Khalid’s career is still unfolding, but his trajectory is clear—he’s not going anywhere. As he matures, so does his sound. Each new project shows growth, curiosity, and a refusal to be boxed into one category.
What makes Khalid so compelling is his authenticity. He doesn’t chase trends; he taps into real feelings and makes them sing. And that’s what R&B, at its core, has always been about.
Conclusion
Khalid’s rise has been meteoric, but it’s also been meaningful. He’s helped reshape the R&B genre with openness, originality, and heart—and he’s just getting started. As he continues to evolve, one thing is clear: Khalid isn’t just a star of his generation. He’s one of R&B’s brightest voices, and his influence will be felt for years to come.
Leight, E. (2017, March 6). Khalid's breakthrough: The R&B star reshaping pop from El Paso. Rolling Stone. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/khalid-american-teen-interview-113410/
Battan, C. (2017, March 7). Khalid: American Teen. Pitchfork. https://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/23041-american-teen/
Billboard Staff. (2020, December 2). Khalid’s biggest Billboard Hot 100 hits. Billboard. https://www.billboard.com
Caramanica, J. (2019, July 24). Khalid and the future of emotional R&B. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com