Malik McDuffie shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Malik, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of my day are dedicated to reading, showering, taking a walk outside, reviewing the day’s assignments, and then having breakfast
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Malik McDuffie, professionally known as Kilam. I’m a songwriter, producer, and creative entrepreneur from Miami, FL. Over the past few years, I’ve built a career working with major artists like Bryson Tiller, Ty Dolla $ign, XXXTentacion, King Von, and YNW Melly, earning over 100 million streams and receiving both Billboard and RIAA plaques. I’m also a Recording Academy voting member, which allows me to influence the future of music on a larger scale.
What makes my journey unique is that I’ve done it without a major co-sign just persistence, purpose, and a passion for creating timeless music. Beyond music, I mentor up-and-coming artists and producers and speak at schools about creative entrepreneurship.
Right now, I’m focused on leveling up everything from launching a new project, to expanding into fashion, public speaking, and sync licensing for film and TV. My goal is to inspire the next generation to believe in their vision, trust their timing, and build a legacy that lasts.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
Before the world told me who I had to be, I was a creative force in its purest form curious, fearless, and full of imagination. I was the kid making beats in his head, writing lyrics before I knew they were lyrics, and dreaming of a life bigger than what was around me. I didn’t worry about approval, perception, or fitting in. I simply created because it was my nature.
Before pressure, and expectation tried to mold me, I was free. And the journey I’m on now is about returning to that unapologetically building a life where I create, inspire, and move people from a place of truth. That’s who I’ve always been, and who I’ll always be.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Keep chasing those dreams & following your heart . Life is going to continue to get better & you’re going to love it.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
100% I’m the same person 24/7
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m creating ! When the world is quiet and I’m locked in, expressing something real through music. It’s in those moments that time slows down, and I remember why I do what I do. I also feel peace when I’m with the people I love, especially in stillness whether it’s a deep conversation, a shared laugh, or just existing together in silence. Peace, to me, is presence. And I chase it by staying grounded in purpose and surrounded by love
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealkilamm?igsh=MXJ3MmV0Y3g3ZWtkdQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malik-mcduffie-77a629244?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@therealkilamm?si=J3rSi26n2Bm-Qnqn
