K-G is on a mission. Every song he and his band plays, every interview he gives exhibits his passion for music and performance; but there's more: this musician, a native of Kenya who moved to the States in the spring of 2002, believes that it is time for music from East Africa to take its rightful place in the spotlight."When people think of African music, they believe the good music comes from West Africa and Southern Africa,not from my region in the east," he explains. "Our music gives peop...
K-G is on a mission. Every song he and his band plays, every interview he gives exhibits his passion for music and performance; but there's more: this musician, a native of Kenya who moved to the States in the spring of 2002, believes that it is time for music from East Africa to take its rightful place in the spotlight."When people think of African music, they believe the good music comes from West Africa and Southern Africa,not from my region in the east," he explains. "Our music gives people the opportunity to experience East African Urban music; my hope is that it will pave the way for other East African musicians.He considers the band's music to be Afro-Urban with an East African influence and a mainstream touch. Critics have embraced the unique sound: "It is an authentic sound," calabashmusic.com reported; and Michael Simyu of Mtaa FM said, "You've got to see them live to believe it."On the new CD, Live in "06," produced by Ramsees Mechan, K-G's soulful lead vocals are melded with Craig Cobb on solo and rhythm guitar; Jason Gloria, lead electric guitar; Andrew Trotter, saxophone; Freddie Green, trumpet; Harry Bayron, violin and keys; Geoff Melvin, drums; Michael Lorden, bass; and Eric de la Cruz as guest percussionist/drummer.When you consider that K-G had his musical epiphany in high school, you realize that this is a musician who's come very far, very quickly. He's a bit more reflective: "I've thought, 'if only I had started out in the U.S. in '98 maybe I would be very far.' No matter; destiny always has it own ideas."The band feeds its musical soul from a variety of sources: Matthews, Marley, Harper, Jean, Wemba, Kidjo and Maal. They all come together and create art that thrills audiences and brings K-G one step closer to his ultimate gig: Wembley Stadium.Until he steps onto the stage at that legendary venue, he has a much more pragmatic view: "I want the audience to feel that they got something new with a positive and energetic message," he says. "Most importantly, they should feel like they had fun."
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