K7D of Oakland on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We recently had the chance to connect with K7D and have shared our conversation below.

K7D , really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
I would have to say getting accepted into Graduate school in London, United Kingdom has definitely made me feel proud.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is K7D, and I’m an artist and creative from Baltimore City, born and raised. Right now, I’m working on my debut album “Till Next T7me,” dropping August 7th, 2025. The album is rooted in storytelling and reflects different phases of my life growing up. It’s inspired by voices like J. Cole, Kendrick, Wale, André 3000, and DMX artists who shaped how I see the world and express myself.

I started my brand K7D to uplift Black communities, celebrate Black love, and push the message of Black excellence. I’m also in the process of securing a student visa to attend Regent’s University in London to pursue my master’s in International Fashion and Marketing.

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 an athlete just trying to stay out the streets of Baltimore. I was focused on making my mom proud and avoiding jail or a casket. Deep down, I always knew I was going to make it out… I just didn’t know how yet.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yeah, for sure. On day three of driving alone from Baltimore to California, my car started overheating near Denver. I pulled into this random Honda dealership in the middle of nowhere. The mechanic asked why I was making the trip, and I told him I was trying to make it out, finish college, and be successful. Two hours later, he came back, fixed my car, gave me my keys, and said, “You better graduate. You were never here.” He didn’t charge me a thing and blessed me. That moment almost broke my motivation, but it reminded me why I started and kept me going.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m all in on getting my student visa to start grad school in London in 2026 and earning my master’s in international fashion and marketing. I’m determined to become one of the biggest creative marketing geniuses out there, and as I get up, I’ll make sure to lift my people up with me.

I’m also locked in on finishing my debut album “Till Next T7me.” Dropping August 7th! It’s been a journey, but I’m not stopping until it’s done. Dj Nelle Nell at Studio X and I been at this for a while now but we getting to it. I’ve got some powerful features on there; LaRussell, Seyi Sax, DeRosay, and Talent.

More than anything, I’m committed to putting Baltimore City on the map where I’m from and showing up for the ones who didn’t have it like I did.

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
Yeah, I believe I’m doing what I was born to do; being a light for my community through my music, my brand, and my support for black owned businesses. Being a creative and using my mind artistically has always been natural for me. This path feel like purpose, not pressure.

Contact Info:

  • Instagram: ___therealk7d

Image Credits
Deangelo James

Sundazerforever- Malik Parker / Talent

Derrina Johnson

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