Khalid Announces ‘After the Sun Goes Down’—First Album Since Coming Out

Global superstar Khalid is entering a new chapter with his forthcoming album, After the Sun Goes Down, slated for release on October 10, 2025, through RCA Records and Right Hand Music Group . The 16-track album, led by the single “In Plain Sight,” arrives as the singer’s first major project since publicly embracing his identity as a gay man—a milestone both for Khalid’s personal journey and for LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream R&B and pop music .

Khalid, who rose to prominence with hits like “Location” and “Young Dumb & Broke,” confirmed his sexuality on November 22, 2024, after being outed publicly. In a statement to his fans, Khalid wrote: “I got outed and the world still continues to turn… I am not ashamed of my sexuality! In reality it ain’t nobody’s business! But I am okay with me” . His openness has resonated deeply with LGBTQ+ communities worldwide, with many praising his courage for living authentically in the public eye.

This year, Khalid made his debut Pride performance at WorldPride DC 2025, where he expressed gratitude to the crowd: “Before I continue, I wanna thank you guys so much for accepting me. Thank you for supporting me. It means the world to me. It makes me so happy. I feel like I’m here on the stage” . The moment was widely celebrated as a breakthrough for visibility, especially for Black queer artists in the music industry.

After the Sun Goes Down is described by Khalid as “about taking my power back, living in my truth, and being able to express myself freely” . The project is set to blend Khalid’s signature pop and soul influences, with the lead single “In Plain Sight” already generating buzz as a party anthem that celebrates liberation and self-acceptance.

Fans can expect the album to delve into themes of personal growth, resilience, and love from an openly queer perspective. In his announcement, Khalid said, “I’m excited for my fans to experience this new era with me, not just musically, but personally” .

Produced in collaboration with Right Hand Music Group, the album will be available in multiple formats, including an exclusive opaque turquoise vinyl edition .

Khalid’s journey is emblematic of broader shifts in the music industry toward greater LGBTQ+ visibility and acceptance. As a Black gay artist, his story offers representation for multiple marginalized communities and serves as an inspiration for queer youth navigating their own identities.

LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations have highlighted Khalid’s openness as a significant cultural moment. His participation in major Pride events and willingness to address both the challenges and joys of coming out reflect an ongoing commitment to uplifting the community .

The release of After the Sun Goes Down is anticipated to be more than a musical milestone—it stands to influence conversations about authenticity, intersectionality, and empowerment for LGBTQ+ audiences around the world.

Pre-orders and pre-adds for After the Sun Goes Down are now available on major streaming platforms, with the full album dropping October 10, 2025 . As anticipation builds, Khalid’s message remains clear: “I am okay with me”—a declaration that continues to resonate far beyond the stage.