INTERVIEW: Up Close With Kehv

Find Out Why They Call Him “The Prince Of Reggae Soul”

Kehv is a soulful reggae artist who’s been doing his thing for quite some time now—almost a decade to be exact. You may not know his name yet but pay attention: Kehv has international appeal and fans across the globe. We’re going to give you a little taste of what Kehv is all about musically right here, the rest is just a matter of time. The genre needs more music like Kehv’s right yah now. Bring back the real rub-a-dub style! Check it… Interview After The Jump

Shilo: Hey Kehv, it’s been a long time. How are you?

Kehv: Greetings Shilo. I’m blessed to still be here doing what I love to do, which is creating music and spreading positive energy far and wide across the land.

You’ve come a long way since we first met in 2006. I see you’ve been quite busy with your music. Tell us a little about the journey

It’s been an enriching journey so far. I’ve been learning a lot about people and human nature and most importantly about myself as an artist. As I travel and meet new people, I get moved by their stories and how they receive my music with such openness and love.  The journey has turned into more of a fellowship with fans and music lovers across the world. I’ve spoken to folks who’ve been in jail saying that my music helped to heal their minds.  All I know is God has given me something special to share and I’m on this path to learn more about it.

Are you with a label? Who is your management team?

I am currently working through my own label, Impressionist Music, which was created to work with a variety of people, having different areas of expertise, whose common goal is creating and spreading conscious music. When it comes to guidance of my career, I do have a manager, Helen Morgan, who has the primary responsibility to continually make the right connections to help ensure that I further my growth as an artist. I also have a few selected individuals who I call “the cabinet,” whio I speak with from time to time to keep me grounded, focused and connected. This is important as the “grind” and “hustle” of this business sometimes becomes tiring when all I really want to do is sing and make music that will positively affect the world.  However, after speaking with my team, I take it to the Lord in prayer for wisdom and strength to make the right decisions.

They call you ‘The Prince Of Reggae Soul.” How did that title come about?

The name was given to me by someone very special to di I…It came at a time when I was hearing from a few people in the industry that I would have to choose a side to represent, either R&B or reggae, that I could not do both. I found that difficult as I love the soothing sounds of soul music plus I love the positive platform that foundation reggae music allows a writer, like myself, to stay socially relevant and spiritually charged.  Songs like “Conscious Farmer,” “Believer”and “R.A.S.T.A. Nah Bow” brings the message to the people in a soulful way.  This title stands for freedom from the oppressive nature of the Babylonian system of segregation and class. THEY don’t tell me who I am.  I tell THEM. I’m thankful that my music also reflects that title well and it’s been positively received by my fans.

Kehv “Conscious Farmer”

Do you write your own material?

Yes. I am involved with writing 100% of my material.  I occasionally have co-writers.  The key is that I’m always writing.  I believe it’s important to use my words to express myself versus another person’s words—unless what is written I truly feel.

I know you’ve been busy touring and performing. Where are some of the places your music has taken you?

I have performed in places like Brazil, Germany, Amsterdam, Jamaica, and different hot pockets in America.  The Brazil trip was very interesting as it was a tour with Ky-mani Marley.  I accompanied him and his band as the opening act and I also performed with him on stage. On tour also were foundation bands like The Wailers with Family Man, Big Mountain, Inner Circle, just to name a few.

Who are some of the artists you have collaborated with? And, are there any particular producers or artists you’d like to work with?

I’ve collaborated with Ky-mani Marley, Inner Circle, Don Omar, DJ Laz, and Derrick Morgan.  I would love to collaborate with some female reggae artists such as Tanya Stephens or Etana. Producers such as Dean Frazier, Stephen Marley, and Sly & Robbie also come to mind.  I have also shared the stage with Richie Spice, Burning Spear, Tarrus Riley, Beenie Man and Shaggy.  I’m sure I’m forgetting lots, but I think you get the picture…

I see you play the guitar. Do you play any other instruments?

Yes. I play the piano which was actually the first instrument I learned. I later took up the guitar which I taught myself to play.  This became my main instrument of choice for the simple fact of portability.  It’s hard to strap a keyboard to your back and go play in New York subway stations or by the ocean without a little extra help.

“Distant Lover” is such a beautiful song. How has the response been?

There are many songs from the Simply Kehv album that are popular, but apparently “Distant Lover” is the song that people really take to!  There are at least three fan videos made of that one song on YouTube with great counts… LOL.  I laugh because I didn’t expect this. It’s interesting when something happens when you least expect it.

Kehv “Distant Lover”

Are you working on any other projects?

Currently I’m working on music for my sophomore album, which is taking shape nicely. I am excited to be working with some amazing musicians and producers. Musicians such as  [drummer] Squidly Cole and  [bass player] Chris Meredith, who have been touring with Stephen Marley and family for over two decades. Producers Leroy Pennicott and Paul Fakhourie, who have worked with the likes of Lauryn Hill, Amy Winehouse and Jazmine Sullivan are also a part of the production. I am also involved in collaborations with Natures Way Entertainment and have two singles out with them with more to come.  The two singles are “No Retreating” on the Hope Riddim and “Red Dress” on the Sunset Blvd Riddim.  These projects have kept me very busy writing and recording in the studio.

What’s your inspiration?

My inspiration has always been life and love. The expressions of these things I see through people, myself, and situations.  That is a reason I love to travel and meet new folks, see new things. It all comes back out of me in the form of music—word power and sound.

Well, it’s been great catching up with you Kehv. Is there anything you’d like to add before you go?

Thank you for your time! It’s always a pleasure. I just want my fans and supporters to know that I love them and to continue to support the music by downloading from Itunes or buying my debut album “Simply Kehv” from CD Baby!

ONE LOVE!