"I love the feeling that develops in me when I listen to Motown music and artists like Donny Hathaway, Etta James, Nina Simone and Fela Kuti. Blues, Jazz and Afro beat inspire me to write and use my voice as an instrument. Music to me is about my voice. No sugar, no spice, just my voicein its true form"says 22-year-old recording artist KenO.
Born in Nigeria and raised in the city of Atlanta, Georgia, KenOs voice captures the richness of African soul blended with American rhythms that traverse decades back, while still embodying the urban sounds of todays music. Growing up with the conditioning that academic education and its resulting careers were of optimal priority, KenO had to create special efforts to ensure that his dream of singing would not fail. In high school, he could be found participating in numerous musical productions and competing in various talent shows. As a winner in a majority of these talent shows he was able secure the spirit of his singing and performing dreams. KenO managed to balance being a model academic student while still fulfilling the artist in himself. Going on to college, while pursuing a Bachelors in Biology, he continued to perform in several dance and chorus theatre productions.
An 8-year veteran of live stage performances, KenO can always be counted on to single-handedly capture his audiences attention and emotions with just the use of his voice. As a recording artist, he is able to channel a diverse range of styles and sounds. Consider him a multiple threat for he has been recognized as an exceptional artist; singing live and in recording, on the dance floor and with his hands on the keyboards.KenO has performed at a Storm Records showcase at Club 11:45 in Victoria Island, Lagos with several artists such as Dbanj, X2, Danfo Drivers. He has also performed with numerous artists such as N.A.I.R.A, El Dee of the Trybesmen and 2Face Idibia. He is currently working on an Album due early December.Sitting at a keyboard playing major and minor chords; and harmonizing, singing from a low base note to an airy falsetto. Singing with the intent of drawing out emotions of love, heartbreak and life in melodies of old-school Rhythm & Blues with an urban feel. That is KenO in his pure form.
