Kota The Friend: Foto

I stumbled onto Kota The Friend’s album by accident. Scrolling through Twitter, I looked for some new posts about music that came out on Friday. I was drawn to Kota The Friend’s captivating music video “For Colored Boys.” The gripping lyrics about navigating as a black male in society immediately caught my attention. Once I found the album to accompany the music video, I was hooked. 

Kota’s debut album, “Foto,” delivers messages about past experiences that built him into the person he is today. The messages come from multiple family members' advice about self-sustainability, confidence, and enjoying what life has to offer. The stories and voice messages relate to and perceive the theme that Kota later raps about. The structure of the album creates this photo book of different moments that made Kota push the messages you hear in the music. 

Kota The Friend’s appeal is in his thoughtful and honest lyrics. Kota uses his experience to give advice to those who listen without coming off as preachy. He sticks to light and warm instrumentals that complement his voice throughout his debut. My favorite moments from “Foto” are “Mommy,” “Bagels,” and “For Colored Boys.” “Mommy” is an anthem for kids from single-parent households. Each verse addresses different types of families from numerous economic backgrounds. The verses switch between single parents, family addiction, and wealth. 

“Bagels” offers a love story that honestly portrays the good and bad in both partners. The charming song finds Kota expressing his flaws and accepting his love interest. “For Colored Boys” is my favorite song in the album. Of course, this has a special place because of the subject matter. The song expresses his message to young black men in America. 

Kota The Friend has the ability to grow with his audience. Kota’s appeal comes with his honest guidance and advice you can learn from his music. Since he is only in his mid-20s, his message doesn’t come off as preachy and he is able to connect to his youthful listeners.