By [STRIVE TIMES US]
In the ever-evolving landscape of poetry and performance, one name continues to command attention — Savage Writer, the alter ego of Khali Raymond, a Newark-born author, actor, and activist who refuses to be silenced. Known for his raw honesty and powerful storytelling, Khali embodies resilience, creativity, and transformation.
In this exclusive interview, Savage Writer opens up about his beginnings, inspirations, achievements, and what lies ahead for 2026 and beyond.
“My Name Is My Power” — The Origin of Savage Writer
Q: What is your name, and what does it mean to you?
A: “My artist’s name is Savage Writer, which I gave to myself because I don’t hold back with my words and thoughts. Also, my output is crazy,” he says with confidence.
Born Khali Raymond, the Newark native carries a name full of spiritual significance. “My mother told me the reason she named me Khali is because I am the eternal master who is destined for greatness,” he explains.
“Khali is an Arabic name that means ‘empty, void,’ or refers to something solitary to which time has passed,” he adds. “It also signifies eternity and immortality in other contexts. It even derives from Kali, the Hindu goddess of time, death, and rebirth — so yeah, moms was on the money with that name.”
The Beginning of a Lifelong Journey
Q: When did your journey as an artist begin?
A: “I started my artistic journey professionally on October 26, 2014, the day I published my first book, The Ballad of Sidney Hill. I was only fifteen years old at the time,” Khali recalls.
He admits that even as a child, he knew this was his path. “I always knew this was something I wanted to do and not a damn thing was going to stop me, even if I had to figure it out on my own.”
By 2017, he expanded his artistry to performing. “At first, I wasn’t accustomed to speaking aloud,” he says. “As time went on, I quickly adjusted and was able to blossom in unimaginable ways.”
Then came film and acting during the pandemic. “I began doing film work and acting around 2021. That was something I was always passionate about — I just didn’t know how I’d do it until the opportunity came.”
From Silence to Self-Empowerment
Q: What inspired you to begin your creative journey?
A: “It was always my dream to be a storyteller,” he shares. “To be honest, I was a timid child. There were so many times that I didn’t stand up for myself because I didn’t know what to do and didn’t have the courage to try.”
Growing up in a challenging environment deeply shaped him. “A dysfunctional environment can do something to your mind and spirit,” Khali reflects. “But I realized this wasn’t the way I wanted to live. The power to save myself wasn’t going to come from anyone else but me.”
With determination in his voice, he adds:
“If no one wanted to listen to what I had to say, then I was going to make sure that the entire world did.”
Achievements That Speak for Themselves
Q: You’ve achieved so much already. Can you share some of your milestones?
A: “I’ve published well over thirty books, performed in countless open mics and creative showcases, graduated with two degrees, produced several short poetry films and music videos,” he lists.
During his time at Kean University (2019–2021), he also contributed to the college newsletter. His range of talents extends into theater, with appearances in productions like I Matter and That’s Not Kool, an anti-bullying play highlighting the effects of peer cruelty.
“I’ve also done community activism and volunteering,” he adds. “I advocate for the rights of Black and Brown people while inspiring inner-city youth to follow their dreams and never give up on themselves.”
2025: A Year of Expansion and Recognition
Q: What are some significant things you’ve achieved in 2025?
A: “I’ve been heavily touring the Tri-State area doing a multitude of performances,” Khali says proudly. “I had the opportunity to be featured on Voices in Power and Poetry Me, Please — two of the biggest poetry platforms in the world right now.”
He also traveled to Orlando, Florida, to perform this summer. “In addition to my performances, I’ve been dropping short poetry films on YouTube and Instagram, and the reception has been incredible.”
His latest poetry collection, Ashes 2 Ashes, Dust 2 Dust, has also received widespread praise.
“The reception to the book has been nothing short of stellar,” he says. “The energy this year has been unmatched.”
Looking Ahead: 2026 and Beyond
Q: What’s next for Savage Writer?
A: “I can’t say a lot right now,” he teases, “but just know that you’re going to be in for a wild ride.”
Khali hints at two new books in progress, alongside film and music projects. “The streets will be well fed. Just know that,” he says with a grin.
Savage Writer
Before wrapping up, Khali leaves one last message for aspiring artists and dreamers everywhere:
“Don’t wait for anyone to validate you. You are the masterpiece and the creator at the same time. Once you embrace that, no one can take your power away.”