Khalid Found ‘Closure’ After an Ex Outed Him. Now There’s a ‘Flood of Energy in My DMs’ Since Confirming He’s Gay (Exclusive)

Khalid Opens Up About Embracing His True Self and the Overwhelming Support He’s Received (Exclusive)

Khalid, the 27-year-old pop sensation, made headlines last year when he was outed as gay by an ex-partner online. Despite the initial challenges this brought, Khalid made a conscious decision to embrace his true identity. This journey of self-discovery served as a powerful inspiration for his latest album, “After the Sun Goes Down,” which was officially released on Friday, October 10. The album is a vibrant collection of dance-pop tracks, marking a significant moment in Khalid’s career as he openly uses he/him pronouns to express his experiences with love in his songs.

Following his public coming out, Khalid has been overwhelmed by the positive response he has received. Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE, he shared that his direct messages are now flooded with an abundance of energy and support from fans. Despite this newfound visibility, Khalid chooses to keep details of his dating life private, emphasizing that it is a personal matter not up for public scrutiny. Maintaining a light-hearted approach, he jokingly adds, “It ain’t nobody’s business!”

For Khalid, the past year has been transformative as he revels in the freedom of living authentically. He highlights the significant changes in his life, such as feeling comfortable in LGBTQ+ spaces without shame, embracing his femininity and masculinity without reservation, and expressing himself more openly in public settings. The singer expresses joy in being able to fully be himself without fear or judgement, a stark contrast to the secrecy he felt compelled to maintain in the past.

Reflecting on the individual who publicly outed him, Khalid, born Khalid Robinson, shares that while he has not had any contact with that person, he has long found closure within himself. Drawing clear boundaries, he remarks on the importance of keeping certain doors closed for his own peace of mind. Khalid firmly believes that closure is a personal journey and does not require input from external sources, emphasizing the strength he has found in setting and maintaining his own emotional boundaries.

Drawing inspiration from legendary divas who shaped his musical upbringing, Khalid infused his latest album with a sense of homage to those who paved the way before him. By embracing his vulnerability and unapologetically showcasing his queerness, he aims to celebrate his journey of self-acceptance through his music. Khalid’s friends have been taken aback by this new chapter in his artistry, acknowledging the depth of emotion and authenticity he brings to his work.

In conclusion, Khalid’s latest album stands as a testament to his personal growth and self-acceptance. By proudly sharing his authentic self with the world, he hopes to inspire others to embrace their own identities fearlessly. As he continues to navigate his journey, Khalid remains focused on his music and the positive impact it can have on those who listen. With a renewed sense of purpose and freedom, Khalid is set to make his mark as an artist who not only entertains but also empowers through his unapologetic self-expression.