NEWS
Leven Kali
Quincy BanksThis year, Billboard celebrates Black History Month with different playlists catered to “Black Love.” We’ve handpicked artists, producers and songwriters to highlight songs that best embody the amorous theme and explain why these records give them that butterfly feeling every time. Be on that lookout every Tuesday and Thursday for new playlists from some of your favorite names in music.
Singer-songwriter-producer Leven Kali has been lending his talents to a multitude of R&B and hip-hop stars for years. He’s earned writing and production credits on Drake’s Billboard 200-topping mixtape More Life, Jazmine Sullivan’s new deluxe version of her Grammy-nominated EP Heaux Tales and KYLE’s latest album It’s Not So Bad. He also appeared on Playboi Carti’s critically acclaimed self-titled tape, Maeta’s debut EP Habits and Topaz Jones’ LP Don’t Go Tellin’ Your Momma.
But when it comes to his solo material, the Netherlands-born, California-bred artist continues diving deeper into the G-funk bass lines that are perfect to cruise down the SoCal coast to, mixed with his heartfelt neo-soul melodies and irresistible charisma. After dropping his 2020 album HIGHTIDE, Kali is ready to take fans back on a ride with his new single “EEK,” out Friday (Feb. 18), from his upcoming project — and meet them on the road, since he and Col3trane will be supporting KYLE on tour starting next month.
“Black History Month is cool. But we always start with slavery. Black kids would grow up with way more confidence and pride having a connection to the traditions, music and spirituality from Africa before slavery,” Kali tells Billboard. “There’s royalty and wisdom in our blood. All the other minorities have a homeland to connect to, but we’ve lost the link between African Americans and Africa. Not cool.”
“I love the idea about Black Futures Month too,” he adds, which Ye has been promoting recently.
His Black History Month playlist blends India.Arie and D’Angelo’s self-assuring and reassuring soulful melodies, with Future’s dazed and amused bars, and The Neptunes’ spin on a Sade classic. “These are some of my favorite love songs. Good love, bad love, self love, family love, God’s love. It’s all love. Music is love,” he says.
Below, Kali dives into every track on his playlist in his own words:
1. D’Angelo, “Alright”
Reassurance in love. Bass line on this song gets me every time too.
2. Stevie Wonder, “Superwoman (Where Were You When I Needed You)”
It always f—s me up thinking that he was 21 when he made this. It’s a masterpiece, so deep, and the transition from part one to two is crazy. My mom used to play this in the car a lot.
3. Sade, “By Your Side (Neptunes Remix)”
The feeling in her voice — and The Neptune’s flip — beautiful.
4. India.Arie, “Video”
Self-love song.
5. Michael Jackson, “Butterflies”
Always seemed so dope to me that Michael wanted to get on a track like this, always evolving his sound.
6. Future, “Rich $ex”
Lots of songs today talk about the drama and the toxicity in love, but on this track, he’s talking about making love, passion — classic.
7. Mint Condition, “Breakin’ My Heart (Pretty Brown Eyes)”
The lead singer Stokely is singing his heart out and the band is going off the whole time. Love that. Tons of energy, but it’s all perfectly arranged.
8. Ye (Kanye West), “Family Business”
Even though they got drama, you gotta have love for your family.
9. Ms. Lauryn Hill, “Tell Him”
Everything about this song: Her voice. The lyrics. The harmonies sound like a waterfall.
10. Marvin Gaye, “Is That Enough”
It sounds so good you don’t realize he’s talking about divorce. “Why do I have to pay attorney fees?!” What a bar.
11. Leon Ware, “Learning How to Love You”
I love finding out who worked on my favorite music and connecting those dots. Leon produced a lot with Marvin Gaye. You’ll hear it immediately, his solo music is dope.
12. Otis Redding, “Try a Little Tenderness”
The way this song builds and opens up reminds me of how love grows between people. The music shows you how connected R&B and gospel has always been.
Check out Kali’s “Black Love” playlist below.
NEWS
Kelly Rowland has shared some heartfelt guidance for KATSEYE as the girl group faces a challenging period, with Sophia Laforteza and Manon Bannerman temporarily stepping away to prioritise their mental health.
Having experienced worldwide fame at an early age with Destiny’s Child, Kelly understands the intense pressure that comes with success and changes within a group. During an interview with Rolling Stone, she encouraged the KATSEYE members to look after their own needs while continuing to stand by one another.
She explained: “In an industry as fast-paced as music, where there are constantly eyes on you and pressure to keep rising, your health is one of the most sacred things you have.
“I learned during my time in Destiny’s Child that you can show up for your fans and your group while still honouring what you need as an individual.”
Kelly then revealed what she would personally tell the group: “My advice to the KATSEYE girls would be to listen to themselves, be kind to themselves, and continue supporting one another through every season.”
As KATSEYE continue their Wildworld tour, Kelly also highlighted the importance of making space to recharge: “Especially on tour, it’s so important to intentionally carve out time to rest and reset in their daily routines. Taking care of your mind and body is what allows you to bounce back, stay resilient, and keep doing what you love.”
KATSEYE began their Wildworld tour on Tuesday (01.09.26), although neither Sophia nor Manon was present.
Sophia discussed her decision on Instagram Stories, telling fans: “I cannot express how much I want to participate in this tour and perform for you all. I have to remind myself every day that our health and mental wellbeing should always be prioritised.
“When I show up for you, I want you to get the best version of me. I've been in ongoing treatment and doing everything I can to stay healthy, occupied and happy.
“You can’t pour from an empty cup. It’s important to care for yourself.”
KATSEYE later posted an official announcement on Instagram, saying: “We would like to share an update regarding Sophia’s upcoming schedule.
“Sophia is focusing on her wellbeing, and the company remains fully committed to providing her with all the support and resources needed.”
Signed by HYBE and Geffen Records, the announcement verified that Sophia “will not be participating in the Wildworld Tour in Europe and the UK”.
However, no reference was made to the group’s scheduled performances in North America.
The statement added: “We sincerely ask for EYEKONS’ warm understanding, as our highest priority will always be the health and long-term well-being of our artists.
“We will share further updates as they become available. Please continue to send your love, warmth, and support to Sophia and KATSEYE.”
Sophia also expressed her appreciation for the care she has received from her management team and fellow members while dealing with her health concerns.
She added: “There’s been nothing but love and support from the company, my members, and everyone else around me as I work to get well. I can’t wait until I return and share the stage with my sisters again.
“They’re gonna put on an extraordinary performance for you. Trust me, I’ve been watching and they’re absolutely giving.”
Ending her message with gratitude, she told supporters: “I love you all so much. Thank you for understanding.”
The Pinky Up singers, whose lineup also includes Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel and Yoonchae Jeung, have appeared with five members since February after Manon took a break to concentrate on her “health and wellbeing”. Sophia’s temporary absence means the group is currently performing with four members.
