This week’s episode of Bad For The Community features Grammy-winning artist Caliph, a New Bedford native whose influence in Boston’s hip-hop scene stretches back to the early 2010s.
The rapper opens up about his journey from Senegal to the United States and the challenges he faced navigating life as a DACA recipient.
Throughout the conversation, Caliph reflects on the personal insecurities, setbacks, and resilience that shaped both his character and artistry. Turning hardship into inspiration, he discusses how his music became a vessel for purpose and empowerment, not just for himself, but for others with similar stories.
The discussion also dives into the evolution of Boston’s hip-hop landscape, from the influential “12 for 12” era to the new generation of emerging talent defining the city’s sound today. Caliph and the hosts unpack how far the local scene has come, emphasizing the importance of artists giving back and representing their roots once they achieve success.
The hosts and Caliph dive deep into the question of whether artists have a responsibility to “put on” for their city once they achieve success, touching on Benzino’s recent comments about local representation in hip-hop. Caliph weighs in with his perspective, highlighting the importance of unity, accountability, and giving back to the community that helped shape one’s foundation.
He also speaks on the lasting impact of Jefe Replay, acknowledging the late rapper’s influence on the culture and spirit of Boston’s music community. From mentorship to creative collaboration, Caliph reflects on how Replay’s energy continues to inspire both emerging and established artists.
In addition to revisiting his past projects like Good Karma and Heart in Mind, Caliph teases new music and introduces his upcoming music app, designed to empower artists through innovation and accessibility.
