Khalid’s ‘after the sun goes down’ Marks a Bold New Chapter for the R&B Star
A newfound sense of liberation and artistic risk defines Khalid’s latest album, after the sun goes down, a project born from personal reckoning and arriving after a period of introspection, signals a full-circle moment for the artist who first captivated audiences with the raw emotion of his teenage experiences.
Khalid first rose to prominence with his 2017 debut, American Teen, crafting anthems that resonated with a generation. Singles like “Location” and “Young Dumb & broke” quickly climbed the Billboard Hot 100, peaking within the Top 20 and establishing his signature crooning R&B sound. Subsequent albums, Free Spirit and Scenic Drive, demonstrated his musical maturation, though some critics noted a diminishing of the vulnerability that initially defined his work.
This new album represents a significant turning point. It is khalid’s first as an openly gay artist, following being outed by a former partner on X (formerly Twitter). This experience, rather than hindering his creativity, has infused the project with a palpable energy and a fearless exploration of fiery romance.As one analyst noted, after the sun goes down is no longer an escape, but a party of belonging.
The lead single, “in plain sight,” instantly showcases this shift. Driven by a pop-funk, synth-driven beat, the track is lyrically defiant, with Khalid confronting past betrayals. “Oh, I got so much to tell you / ‘Cause somethin’ ain’t right / shoulda saw it comin’,” he sings, a sentiment that encapsulates the album’s overarching theme of unburdening.
The album’s sonic landscape is diverse, blending familiar elements with bold experimentation. “Whenever you’re gone” evokes the dreamy atmosphere of his earlier work, featuring Khalid’s signature falsetto, before erupting into an infectious pop chorus. He even surprises listeners with rap verses, as heard in the track where he declares, “So tired, up, manic / Soul tie, fell in love with our dark side.”
Executively produced by ILYA, known for his work with Ariana Grande, after the sun goes down explores the complexities of love in all its forms – from playful flirtation to raw emotionality. Khalid cites musical influences ranging from Britney Spears and Janet Jackson to Rihanna, with the impact of the latter particularly evident in tracks like “out of body.”
The album also delves into emerging genres. “Dumbstruck” incorporates elements of hyperpop and UK garage, pulsing with ’80s synths and a vibe reminiscent of Troye Sivan. “Now it’s one more gram and I’m elevated / Two more hits and we’ll never make it,” Khalid sings,acknowledging the pressures of fame.
Despite the album’s embrace of pop sensibilities, Khalid remains grounded in the emotional core that initially connected him with audiences. The closing track, “Hurt people,” offers a poignant reflection on loss, specifically revisiting the experience of losing his father. “Oh, I’ve known hurt before, hurt before / And I no hurt people hurt people,” he sings, demonstrating a newfound maturity and perspective.
While the album largely succeeds in its aspiring scope, some tracks, such as “nah” and “impulsive,” feel somewhat diluted, failing to stand out amidst the stronger material. However,the overall impression is one of an artist reborn.For an artist who once defined heartbreak through longing and despair, this new iteration of Khalid is undeniably liberated and unafraid to be fully seen.
