Today we’d like to introduce you to Kalifa Lawson.
Hi Kalifa , please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Datboykalifa, born Kalifa J. Lawson on October 30, 1988, is a multifaceted American artist whose creative pursuits span music, photography, and entrepreneurship. A native of Los Angeles, California, whose formative years were shaped in the Inland Empire, Kalifa has been a persistent force in the arts since first entering the music scene in 2008. His journey is a testament to the power of independent hustle, a truth underscored by a major career milestone: a winning performance at Rolling Loud Los Angeles in March 2025. This coveted opportunity was secured through his victory in a contest hosted by SomethingDopeforthepeople, a platform dedicated to elevating independent artists by providing them with monumental stages.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I’ve Come across many many Struggles being an independent artist the one Ive struggled with the most was Finding a solid team. So No it was not a smooth road and Learning is an Everlasting process so I’m still a student when I can Be if it’s something of Value that I consider an asset I’m Tuned in. Like The Great Nipsey Hussle Said I Steal Information You don’t Even Gotta Tell Me!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As a musician, Datboykalifa’s work is a raw and resonant reflection of his life experiences. His catalog, which includes the Single BIG BAD WOLF and standout singles like “My Vibe” and “Silver Surfer,” And The Ep Ghettorockstarz delves into themes of real-world struggle, incarceration, and personal transformation, all available across major streaming platforms. This authentic narrative extends into his visual work as a renowned celebrity photographer. Affiliated with Politikan Broadcasting, he captures compelling behind-the-scenes footage for major music video productions and red carpet events, showcasing a keen eye for the moments that happen off-stage.
Beyond his artistic output, Datboykalifa is a dedicated entrepreneur and community figure. He is the co-founder of both Blasted Ink Officials and Da Winning Team LLC, initiatives that reflect his commitment to building independent creative enterprises. His mission to inspire others and break the cycle of generational struggle is a central pillar of his work, a journey so compelling it is being chronicled in the documentary series “Breaking the Cycle Filmed and Directed By Marcus Hood Founder of RelativeVisionTv. He has consistently performed across the State of California in cities like Hesperia, San Bernardino, Riverside, Los Angeles, Ontario, Sacramento and San Diego building a loyal grassroots following.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Be Yourself. Learn Everything You can And Never Give Up. Perfect Your Craft Stay Consistent and Just Drop The MUSIC You never Know who’s watching and what will Blow Up Especially on TikTok.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Datboykalifa.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/datboykalifa4?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/datboy.kalifa?mibextid=wwXIfr&mibextid=wwXIfr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@datboykalifa?si=-3wlS1esdFJ03_oF
- Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/snwBxtIeQ4THFERs9g
Image Credits
RelativeVisionTV
DawinningteamMedia
