As the 2025 GRAMMYs season kicks off with First Round Voting starting on Oct. 4, artists across the industry reflect on their creative journeys and contributions to the GRAMMYs.
One of those artists is Khalid, a seven-time GRAMMY nominee whose deep connection to songwriting and the GRAMMY process is showcased in a new social media series. Khalid opens up about his evolution as a songwriter, the emotional depth of his work, and the significance of participating in GRAMMY voting as a Recording Academy member.
Here’s a look at what he shared:
Khalid On His Evolution As A Songwriter
Khalid talks about how songwriting is central to his identity as an artist. He emphasizes the importance of creating a world for listeners to step into — a "soundscape" that captures emotion, honesty and vulnerability.
"Being a songwriter is something I value and I really hold dear to my core," Khalid says. "When you're creating a song, you're creating a soundscape. You're creating a universe that you want the listener to live in temporarily with you for three minutes, so it's all about empathizing with the listener."
Reflecting on his growth between 2019's Free Spirit and his latest album, Sincere, Khalid sees a journey filled with more love, loss and honesty. His advice to his younger self: "Keep having fun."
His statement reflects a theme at the Recording Academy's recent Songwriters & Composers Wing Town Hall, showcasing the crucial role songwriters play in the music industry.
Read More: 4 Lessons & Resources Every Songwriter & Composer Should Know
Khalid On His Connection To The GRAMMYs
For Khalid, being a part of the GRAMMYs has been a dream come true, recalling how he once tweeted his desire to attend the event years before his career took off. He reflects on his first time being nominated — in 2018, when he received five nominations, including Best New Artist — and how meaningful it was to him as an artist.
"I will forever appreciate the GRAMMYs for that," Khalid explains of his impressive first year as a nominee. "I truly believe that my impact on this earth is to heal with my music and to help calm and create the vibe and the mood."
Khalid also emphasizes the importance of GRAMMY voting, encouraging Recording Academy members to use their voices to recognize and celebrate the work of fellow artists.
"We are the creatives, we are the musicians. We write these stories. We heal with this music. We have this magic when it comes down to music. Make sure you go out there and make sure you utilize your voice," he says.
GRAMMYs True Or False With Khalid
As a fun bonus, Khalid participated in a quick game of GRAMMYs True or False, sharing his thoughts on some memorable GRAMMY moments.
As the 2025 GRAMMYs season kicks off with First Round Voting, Khalid's reflections remind us of the impact that music — and the GRAMMY Awards — have on artists, fans and the world. Be sure to watch the videos and stay tuned for more insights from your favorite artists as we lead up to Music's Biggest Night on Feb. 2, 2025.