The DMV hip-hop scene has blossomed over the past decade thanks to a variety of artists emerging, adding new layers and textures along the way. It’s a beautiful development considering the DMV was once severely overlooked when it came to producing hip-hop artists. As the scene has expanded to the point of national attention, Kelow LaTesha has carved out her own niche on the strength of her eccentricities.
Kelow LaTesha is taking her relationship with the platform to another level by taking us through her hometown in her First on Soundcloud Docuseries.
Hailing from Prince George's County, Maryland, Kelow LaTesha is one of the most versatile artists to come out of the DMV, earning a range of fans and critical acclaim through her brash, free-form approach. If nothing else, you can count on her to do exactly what she wants, regardless of what anyone else thinks.
Kelow was among the artists featured in last year’s First on SoundCloud program, which was unveiled in April 2022. First on SoundCloud, established in 2018, reaches across genres to amplify artists on the cusp of stardom through a year-long residency created to help them connect with new fans through marketing and partnership opportunities. Artists such as Kehlani, Lil Tecca, and Che Lingo have all participated in First on SoundCloud during their respective ascents.
Since breaking through with her 2019 project TSA, Kelow has pushed herself artistically, leaning even further into the carefree method which landed her on the radar in the place. Her 2022 EP Turbo clocks in at just 20 minutes total, but it’s brimming with her distinct edge and personality.
On “Relax,” she glides over mesmerizing production, speeding up to a staccato flow and slowing down to a more drawn-out, conversational pace along the way. She radiates confidence because she knows exactly who she is as an artist and as a person. Her nonchalance reels listeners in because you can feel that confidence in each verse, her flow, and her overall presence. She’ll tell you herself that her style is loose, free, and unapologetically her.
“There’s a lot going on in my mind where I’m over-critical. I’m an overthinker, but I have the balance of being a daydreamer.. And then being goofy helps with my creativity. All the different pieces create the puzzle of who I am.”
Her vision is clear, guided by a dreamer’s willingness to experiment and the self-awareness of an overthinker. She’s driven solely by her own creative impulses, completely unconcerned with other people’s opinions or expectations.
Listen to Kelow LaTesha’s music here and watch her First on SoundCloud ‘22 docuseries episode to learn more.
LISTEN TO KELOW LATESHA
Credits: Directed by Hannan Hussain & Liam Reardon
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