We’re looking forward to introducing you to Kuhlahbee. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Kuhlahbee, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: When was the last time you felt true joy?
The last time I felt true joy was recently when I won an open verse competition and got to open for one of my favorite artists, Kota the Friend, at The Abbey in downtown Orlando. I brought my brother and my two closest friends as my crew. Being there, doing what I love with the people who keep me grounded, was honestly the happiest I’d felt in a while — not to mention the validation of knowing I was capable of winning that competition. The experience has had me riding such a motivated wave ever since.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, my name’s Kuhlahbee, my day ones call me Caleb. I’m an alternative hip hop artist with a style that blends melodic Chicago vibes while maintaining a meaningful message — kind of a similar sound to Mac Miller or Aminé. I’m originally from Michigan, and I moved to Orlando, Florida in 2019. Every song I make carries a piece of my personality — some will make you laugh, some will make you cry. I focus on crafting music that resonates and leaves an impact on listeners. I want my listeners to feel seen through my music. Right now, I’m getting ready to drop a three-song EP called Restless Dreamer. This EP dives into the lack of sleep chasing success, and also working a full time job and maintaining a social life.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
I’ve always been the type of person who cares deeply for the people I keep close. Sometimes that meant putting their problems ahead of my own—overextending myself, even inconveniencing my own growth.
Recently, I had a powerful moment at a music festival that shifted that for me. I stopped at a booth where they were sharing affirmations, and the woman running it asked me, “Do you ever dim your light for the people in your life?” I admitted I did. She looked at me and said, “Stop doing that. You dimming your light for anyone is a disservice—to you, to them, and to the version of you that deserves to shine. Your presence helps others shine. You’re the light-bringer. Your light is needed.” She had me close my eyes, think about all the love in my life, breathe it in, and then release it. As I exhaled, she placed a bracelet on my wrist to remind me to keep shining and never shrink myself again.
That moment was unexpected, powerful, and deeply affirming. It reminded me that dimming my light for others isn’t humility—it’s self-betrayal. The part of me that overextends to the point of shrinking myself has served its purpose, and now it’s time to let it go so I can shine fully.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
It taught me who my real people are. The ones who saw my potential even when I couldn’t see it for myself. The ones who push me to keep pushing when I feel like giving up. When you’re on the rise, everyone wants to talk to you and act like they were rooting for you the whole time, but in reality, they weren’t the ones there when it truly mattered. I have so much love for my people and I do because they did what they did.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
Honestly, yes. I try my hardest to lay it all on the table. I want to be real, continue being real, and inspire others to do the same. There’s such a lack of authenticity in the world, so I really cherish meeting genuine people. So yes — it’s a slightly more confident version of me, but it’s still me.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
My people, my big ol’ heart, and the ability and willpower to take nothing and turn it into something beautiful — to create, to love, and to be the light regardless of the environment
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/kuhlahbee/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kuhlahbeemusic
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kuhlahbeemusic
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KuhlahbeeMusic/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPwBQuom-kA3EgMr1Gb5CYQ
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@kuhlahbee
