Meet The Musos: Get To Know Brisbane's Khi'leb Ahead Of His BIGSOUND Performances

At just 21 years old, Brisbane artist Khi'leb is making waves in the world of hip-hop with his debut EP, Project in the Suburbs, which is set to drop this year.

His music is a unique blend of introspection and storytelling, as he navigates the complex spaces that define his identity

Khi'leb's lyrical prowess takes listeners on a journey through the streets, where crime and poverty cast their shadow, to the suburbs, which serve as his respectful and religious sanctuary, and back to his roots in Ghana.

In 2023, Khi'leb accomplished a remarkable feat by clinching the coveted 'Best Hip Hop Artist Award' at the Queensland Music Awards (QMA) with his hit single Cheques.' This victory came amidst fierce competition, solidifying his position as a force to be reckoned with in the Australian hip-hop scene.

Now, he’s set to perform at Brisbane’s BIGSOUND, Australia’s largest music conference and showcase event which returns to the Fortitude Valley from 5-8 September, and will see 141 artists make their marks throughout Brisbane’s music hub.

Ahead of his performance at BIGSOUND 2023, we had a chat with Khi’leb to find out what you need to know about the rising hip-hop star.

If your music was a flavour, what would it taste like?

Assuming we’re talking about ice cream flavours, If my music was a flavour it would be mint. It’s not for everyone but for the people that do love it, THEY LOVE IT!

Who are some of your biggest musical influences and how have they impacted your own sound and style?

My biggest music influences would be my older brother (Wy’es), Kendrick Lamar, and Kanye. I feel like I learned to appreciate the process of a song and its message from them, while also understanding the importance of lyricism and tonality.

What’s been the biggest moment in your career so far?

Definitely winning the Hip Hop Award at the QMA’s. It really made me reevaluate my purpose in the industry and it made me go even harder with the music.

What's the most unusual or unexpected source of inspiration you've drawn from when writing a song?

I draw a lot of inspiration from cartoons when it comes to lyricism and wordplay. I draw a lot of inspiration from Ren and Stimpy, lmao.

Can you share a hilarious or cringe-worthy moment from your early days as an artist?

I used to be heavily into coding when I was a kid, so I used to change the Soundcloud coding that showed the number of streams I had on a song and make it look like I hit a million streams, lmao. I would then take a picture of it and post it on my story like I hit a milestone... I’m not proud of this at all, ahaha.

What are the top three tracks or artists you’re vibing on rn?

TOP 3 TRACKS: 16 Pack - AMAR., Walking on Venus - PAULSN, and 29 - Nebzy.

What’s something that fans might not know about you?

I enjoy uncomfortably silent drives every single time I'm in the car.

If you could only listen to one album for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?

It would most definitely be good kid, m.A.A.d city. I just feel like that album shaped and influenced my sound so heavily. Even till this day, I find myself re-listening to it to gain inspiration.

What's in the works for you in 2023?

LOTS OF NEW MUSIC!! Super keen for the BIGSOUND week as well. I’ll be performing on the 5th and 6th. It’s my first time performing as well, so it should be hella fun. Also, I’ll be up on stage with Baby Prince for this year's Promiseland!! Just tryna stay active all year round and make sure I end this year on high!