KENLO KEY
What's so special about this kid, Kenlo Key? His story starts back in the 1950's when his grandmother was a local star singing the blues in night clubs. That musical drive was then passed on to his mother who became an even bigger r+b star, signing a deal at the age of 17, and becoming a featured artist on shows like Soul Train as well as opening up for some of the greats of that time. So decades later, it is no surprise that Kenlo Key would walk in the same footsteps and soon become an even greater force in the music biz.
At the age of 22, Kenlo Key has done a lot and seen even more. Growing up in a household with a warm hearted, caring mother and an alcoholic father, it is obvious why he is such a versatile person. Around the age of 11 or 12 Kenlo Key would bury himself in writing. Kenlo Key says his music was his escape from the havoc that was within his household. He recalls times when his father was in and out of jail that the music would fill in for his fathers absence. He crafted his writing skills to the point that he not only wrote hip hop music but also R+B, expanding his arsenal of talent beyond the average rapper. This became evident when he unquestionably won a contest for penning the lyrics to a jingle for the popular Chicago Moo and Oink grocery store chain, receiving $1250.00 for a 90 second song.
Kenlo Key says he started to take music seriously in Highschool, when he formed a group with another hungry mc by the name of D.P. whom he met through a mutual friend. They became a force to reckon with even more when they formed a supergroup by the name of Da Z-Gang with two other talented emcees Da K.I.D. and T.Willow. They became well known locally, did shows opening up for big names,such as T.I., Young Jeezy, Lil Wayne, Shawnna, and Bump J as well as traveled a bit performing in the college circuit. Six managers and over ten possible record deals later, they decided the best decision would be to pursue their solo careers. Although, they still record together and share a brotherly bond.
Kenlo Keys name was derived from his laid back, quiet, sometimes mysterious demeanor. He claims his personality is like so because he's been through so much that little things dont spark emotion in him. Growing up he learned to channel his anger and feelings toward his father through his music. This is what most likely got Kenlo Key a name for his self in his neighborhood where he became known as the best battle emcee in that area. Rapper after rapper would step up and get embarrassed. In 2005 his battling skills got him recognition from fellow Chicago artists Shawnna, Rhymefest, Mikkey, and Lupe Fiasco when he went on to become a Finalist in the 2005 MGD Power 92.3 Emcee Battle. In the same year he was also a semi finalist in the popular Chicago Idol contest given by WGCI radio station and he released his first solo demo, Like It or Luv It. After this his buzz was even bigger than it was as in comparison to when he was a group act, leading to offers from people like Shawnna of DTP and also NFL superstar Danny Clark.
Although still unsigned Kenlo Key's future is looking bright. Look out for this cat... with the stamp of approval from Shawnna ("This kid is a problem!") this emcee is not to be taken lightly....Anticipating his time to shine, Kenlo Key promises he wont be unsigned for long. You might want to keep an eye on this guy.
