Kali Fam

Even though hip-hop has seen countless incarnations since its inception – the importance of family has always remained a constant. Numerous crews, clicks and labels have used the concept of family to strengthen their unit and as a rallying cry to top an industry that is known for its lack of loyalty. Now, Richmond, California has birthed another family poised to take center stage in the world of hip-hop – Kali Fam.

Comprised of five talented MCs – Mr. Sef, D.S., Brasco, 18 and Erk Tha Jerk – Kali Fam started as a hobby amongst friends. Instead of falling victim to the perils of Richmond’s rough streets, the crew used their free time to create a kind of hip-hop that combined the thick funk popularized by their Bay Area neighbors with refreshing takes on West Coast life. Word of the young’uns’ talents spread through Richmond quicker than a California wildfire and prompted the group to swiftly turn their hobby into a profession.

Close friends since the jump, it was a no brainer when the groups went searching for a moniker to describe their loyalty for one another and also rep their region. Kali Fam was born. The group first release “Here Now…” moved several thousand units throughout the West – leaving fans anxious for their next offering and labels trying desperately to recruit them.

Their next outing We All In continued to prove that the Fam was among Cali’s most talented artists. Collaborations with grimy lyricist Keith Murray and Redman showed the crew could really spit and superstar Nelly’s appearance on the bouncy “Shine” proved the crew could take control of radio play lists.

As a collective, Kali Fam represents the area that they call home. The Bay Area’s diverse people, unique trends and distinctive style all shine through Kali Fam’s music. But instead of focusing on the negative influences that oftentimes stereotypes Bay Area hip-hop artists, this family has chosen to celebrate the fact that they have the talent to elevate.

“We hope that the other youth can look at us and believe that within themselves is the power to turn a negative into a positive, just like we have done,” says Mr. Sef, the group’s unofficial leader. “Our most important goal is to just make good music and entertain our fans.”

Group member D.S. also believes in the importance of focusing on the positive “We are from different backgrounds,” notes D.S., “but we believe that God has brought us together to share our gifts with others.”

Now, that gift comes in the form of How we Live. Kali Fam’s latest offering has taken the Bay Area’s notoriously critical hip-hop population by storm – becoming a mainstay on local radio and a jumping of shelves at area stores. Applauded for its seamless mix of gritty underground styling and commercial sensibility, How we Live captures the crew’s individual talent, seasoned chemistry and youthful exuberance.

Collaborating with top notch management company Southpaw Entertainment and hitmaker Jason Charles of Chris Stokes’ T.U.G Entertainment has given Kali Fam the right team for success. This time around Kali Fam has recruited producers like J- Classic of Platinum Status, Travarius Polk, Gavbeats, Bedrock, PLP Productions and Ark Angel productions for a diverse mix of banging beats. Add that with features from some of today’s hottest artists including Isyss, Yukmouth, Proof of D12, Rufus Blaq, and new recording artists Fee-Lisa and How we Live’ is certainly the follow up that hungry fans have been craving.

With collaborations with hip-hop luminaries and precise production How we Live promises to expand Kali Fam’s fan base. In addition, the gifted collective’s determination, focus and refined talent will soon make Kali Fam the first Family of Hip-Hop!