Khaliyah X Makes Her Mark with Debut Mixtape What’s My Name?

By: I'Ja Marie

A Journey of Self-Discovery and Soulful Expression 

Chicago’s own Khaliyah X is stepping into the spotlight with her debut mixtape, What’s My Name?, a soulful, genre-bending project that seamlessly blends R&B, pop, and soul into a narrative of personal healing and growth. Over the past two years, Khaliyah’s journey has been one of self-discovery, and this mixtape is a reflection of that—raw, unfiltered, and emotionally charged.

Crafted in real-time during a six-month period, What’s My Name? doesn’t hold back. The project captures Khaliyah’s vulnerability, with tracks shaped by spontaneous emotion and life experiences. The lead single and title track, already racking up over 500,000 streams, sets the tone with its melancholic, laid-back vibe. Sampling Alicia Keys’ “You Don’t Know My Name,” Khaliyah X effortlessly pulls us into her world, pouring out her desire for a love that doesn’t need to be taught or explained. The throwback vibe of early 2000s R&B is undeniable, with Khaliyah X infusing modern sensibilities that make the track fresh yet familiar.

Then there’s "DTP," an anthem in its own right. With catchy hooks, soulful production, and Khaliyah’s layered, emotional vocals, "DTP" offers a sound that’s edgy yet deeply personal. Khaliyah X boldly emphasizes the importance of women setting boundaries and protecting their peace, whether from a partner or anyone else. With infectious hooks, soulful production, and her layered, emotional vocals, the track strikes a perfect balance between edge and vulnerability. It’s a standout moment that captures the fierce independence of an artist defining her own path in the industry.

The standout elements of this mixtape lie in Khaliyah X’s ability to weave her love for poetry into her music. Tracks like "PSA" featuring Kayo and "Transitions" both produced by Joey Hamhock show off her lyrical depth, while "PMG" and "Love Language" produced by Joey Hamhock as well, highlights her knack for storytelling through melodies that blend nostalgia with contemporary soundscapes.

What’s My Name? not only introduces Khaliyah X to the R&B scene—it solidifies her place in it. Her artistry, rooted in personal truth, challenges the notion of staying in one lane. She’s not just following a blueprint; she’s creating her own. Khaliyah X is here, and with this debut mixtape, she’s letting the world know she’s only just getting started.
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The Wrap Up:
Khaliyah X’s What’s My Name? is an emotional, powerful debut that resonates deeply with those on their own journeys of self-discovery. It’s more than just a collection of songs—it’s an open invitation to explore the complexities of love, growth, and identity. The question is, how will you answer?  Stream Khaliyah debut mixtape below and don't forget to add to your preferred streaming platform.

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