DJ Khaled’s entire career thus far has been a quest to do everything to its most enormous potential. From his days DJing in reggae sound clashes to multi-platinum collaborations with the likes of Drake and Justin Bieber, his motivation has been fueled by creating a feeling. The way he screams “We The Best Music” at the start of his many blockbuster super collaborations isn’t just a flex, but a vibe he wants to instil in his listeners. Motivation, hard work, positivity; he shares these throughout his discography as a device to give us a good time.
However, what is surprising is that even two decades into a historic career, Khaled is still hungry. Case and point, his latest album Khaled Khaled. Even before hearing the music, it’s clear that this is the evolution of his character. The motivation, hard work, and positivity are no longer inspired by the hills of success he wants to climb but the estate of generational wealth he wants to build on them. Asahd and Aalam Khaled, his two children, are credited as executive producers, allocating them equity even before entering adulthood. Allah is also credited here, paying homage to his religious beliefs and the history of his family tree. On record, this new sense of drive is vibrant across each song, as the topics of triumph and victory are told elegantly through superstars like Jay Z, Nas, Megan Thee Stallion, Post Malone, and more. Evident as the album’s title comes from Khaled’s birth name, this is the most personal opus we’ve received from the music mogul yet.
In celebration of Khaled Khaled, we’ve taken a look back at DJ Khaled’s history and how his illustrious run provided the major keys that unlocked the mature, motivated curator we see before us today.
Check out the list of Major Keys below and stream Khaled Khaled here.