Tahj Malik Chandler (born July 17, 1994) was born in Chicago, Illinois, United States. He is an American rapper and record producer. He is professionally known as Saba. Saba grew up in a musical family, which sparked his passion for music at a young age. By the time he was ten, he had already started playing the piano, and he began distributing mixtapes in the hallways of his high school. Saba's talent and dedication to his craft led him to perform for live audiences even before he reached the age of 18.
Saba's musical style is characterized by its jazzy, positive, and meaningful message, setting him apart from the drill rap scene that originated in his hometown. This distinctive style emerged alongside a whole generation of Chicago rappers, including Chance The Rapper and Mick Jenkins, who were also seeking to redefine the city's rap sound.
Saba's breakthrough moment came when he delivered a captivating guest verse on "Everybody's Something," a track from Chance The Rapper's highly acclaimed mixtape, Acid Rap, released in 2013. This collaboration catapulted Saba into the spotlight and showcased his lyrical prowess and unique flow. He has since become a sought-after collaborator with other prominent Chicago artists, notably Noname, with whom he appeared on her debut project, Telefone, contributing to over five tracks. Saba's versatility extends beyond his skills as a rapper; he is also a talented multi-instrumentalist and has showcased his production abilities on his own debut album, as well as on Coloring Book, Chance The Rapper's critically acclaimed mixtape.
In 2016, Saba released his debut studio album, Bucket List Project, which received considerable praise from critics and fans alike. The album showcased his introspective storytelling and showcased his ability to craft intricate narratives through his lyrics. Saba followed up his debut with CARE FOR ME in 2018, delving even deeper into personal and emotional themes, garnering further acclaim for his introspective and vulnerable approach to music.
With his unique musical style and insightful lyrics, Saba continues to make a significant impact on the hip-hop scene. His dedication to his craft, his collaborative spirit, and his ability to transcend the boundaries of traditional rap music make him a compelling artist to watch as he further evolves and contributes to the genre's ongoing progression.
