I’ve been pretty unique all my life. I never wanted to fit in with the popular crowd. Well, I did think they were pretty interesting at times… but I never wanted to change who I was just to be accepted by them. Hence, I was labeled “awkward” by my peers growing up. Actually, the concept of assimilating never even seemed like an option in my mind for some reason or another. Needless to say, I was the butt of many a joke. Whether it was because of a hand-me-down outfit I had on, my walk, or the way I talked – there was always something to be said about Kenny. I’d be lying if I told you the things they said didn’t hurt. In fact, they cut quite deep. And yet, for some reason, I seemed to assert my individuality even more.

I was a great student and I excelled in music. Despite the daily taunts, my classmates were extremely attentive and receptive whenever I sang or played piano. Their response gave me enough confidence to make it through the rough times and served as a confirmation of my life-long dream of being a singer one day. I knew that if even they could recognize my gift, the world would one day also.

Later on in high school, I discovered many of my schoolmates who I thought couldn’t stand me actually admired me for always following the beat of my own drum (it would’ve been nice to have known that all along).

Fast-forward to 2012: I have the incredible opportunity of performing at D.C. Fashion Week on February 25.  To me, this is such a full-circle moment. The kid who was once dubbed “weird” by his peers is summoned to perform original music for a crowd of fashion tastemakers. Please don’t misunderstand me, my life has not been a quest to find people who like me.  However, it is a beautiful feeling to be appreciated, respected and loved for who you are and what you do! So, if this is where being awkward will get you – SIGN ME UP! :p

If you’d like to get tickets to my performance at D.C. Fashion Week CLICK HERE

Peace and Chicken Grease…
Ken

What an awesome experience  (I have a few pics from the show on my fanpage).

A double bill with my soul sista Carmen Rodgers. My first sold out show.  A legendary venue.  My band was on FIRE. Many of my friends and fellow artists were there.  The highlight of my 2011 and such an incredible way to close it out.  I look back now in retrospect to the period right before I started performing …and I remember dreaming and hoping to be doing what I’m doing right now.  I’m not a a household name, but I am living my dream.  I perform and I sell records.  I think many have in their minds that being famous is the indication of having “arrived”.  I think that lessens the value the experiences and life lessons one learns on the journey of “becoming” a high-profile artist.  I honestly can say I’m content with my life as it is right now.  I feel that I am successful in as much as I desired to reach a certain goal and I’ve achieved it.  Of course, I have longterm goals (which have not been met yet), but I’m inspired to reach those now that I have made some headway with my very first goals:

1- to play Blues Alley in D.C. (Check. Twice)

2- to have a sold out show (Check)

3- to play the Kennedy Center (Check)

4- to open for a legendary artist (Check. Stephanie Mills)

What are you hoping to accomplish?  Write out a realistic game plan and go for it!  For business people (including musicians), this book you will find very helpful – “The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing” by Al Ries & Jack Trout.  It deals with how to make your brand stand out.  It’s awesome …and short.

Here’s to dreams fulfilled in 2012!

Kenny