https://www.indiemusicinterviews.com/post/kenneith-perrin-10-questions-interview
Kenneith Perrin - 10 Questions Interview
Kenneith Perrin is an inspirational-gospel pop/soul artist based out of Los Angeles, California. Originally raised as a child of parents in the military, Perrin received his most musical influences during his time growing up in Augusta, Georgia. Mesmerized by new wave, funk, soul, and pop, he eventually would go on to write and sing songs that eclectically blended those styles. As a multiple ASCAP Plus Award Winner, over seven of Kenneith's songs have been placed in independent films. Earlier this year in 2020, he and his band were fortunate to open up for the iconic music group Missing Persons at the famous West Hollywood's Whiskey A-Go-Go. Always willing to perform, Kenneith aims to encourage, and bring hope and joy with his music. While you listen to his songs, be expected to take a melodic journey that varies in styles, but remains strong in Christian theme and spirit. Was there something (an experience) or someone in your life that was the "catalyst" for you to start writing music? Tell us about it.
I have always been around music ever since I can remember. My father plays both bass and electric guitar. My mother also plays piano by ear. I remember being around four years old feeling really happy while listening to music on the radio. However, being introduced to Mariah Carey's music was the songwriting catalyst for me. I figured if someone that talented and skillful could bring joy to millions with their music, then I wanted to do that too.
Let's get this out of the way. What is the CRAZIEST thing that has ever happened to you in your music career?
I think the CRAZIEST thing that has ever happened to me in my music career was performing at a American League Veterans Bar in Dayton, Ohio. The place was packed, but the people looked sort of mean. Many were biker guys and biker girls with tons of tattoos. There was quite a bit of carousing going on before I hit the stage. I opened up my set with an original called, All The Blessings Flow. Once I did, it was like their expressions started changing. It was as if they received a joy buzz or something. Many started dancing on the floor and started laughing. Just really enjoying themselves. Some even managed to do while holding beers in their hands without even dropping them. I was pleasantly surprised. It was a miracle. God was definitely on the move that night. *Laughs*. I think I really saw first hand too what the power of music can do to people. It truly can be life changing for the better.
What has been the high point of your music path?
My highest point of my music path actually occurred back in January of this year...2020. My band and I opened up for the iconic new wave-rock group Missing Persons, at West Hollywood's Whiskey A-Go-Go. It was really a dream come true for me because years ago, I corresponded with the lead singer, Dale Bozzio, and before the show we finally met. She was super nice and very encouraging.
So, how do you approach songwriting or what is your creative process like?
Great question. It's really strange. Songs are truly their own characters. If I have a track that a producer has brought to me, I'll instantly come up with a hook or at least the first verse of the song. The beat is important to me because it helps set the tone for the rest of the song. If I'm collaborating with someone, then normally the other person is stronger with creating chords and structure and I'll write the lyrics. If it is a song I wrote myself without any tracks or collaborations, then I will play chords on the piano or sing the melody into my voice recorder so I won't forget what I came up with. Most of the time songs come to me while in the shower; running errands or talking to Jesus. Pretty wild, but true.
What do you see as the biggest challenge facing Indie Artists today? Or, if you could ask the music industry to change one thing, what would it be?
I think the biggest challenge facing Indie Artists today is monetization. I think if we can find both digital and physical platforms that allow more payout and quicker turn around time, then that would be very beneficial for all Indie Artists.
If you could share the stage with one other artist or band, who would it be and why?
I would love to share the stage with Leon Bridges. He's an amazing soul singer/songwriter that captures the element of current flavors mixed with old school sentiments. His voice tone is really smooth and buttery. Harmonizing with him would be phenomenal.
What are your rehearsals generally like? Or, how do you prepare for a live show?
Usually I'll have two rehearsals. The first rehearsal is the one where I'll start off with the most challenging of songs first then go into the simpler ones. I figure better to get the harder songs out of the way first...work out the kinks, so that I will know what we have to perfect. From there we will have another rehearsal where we run through the show but with stops; starts; and breakdowns. I always try to find ways to do a variation of my songs when they are done live. I think that adds more of an excitement to a live show. That way people feel like they are getting a great overall experience and not just at home listening to the same songs on Spotify or Youtube.
What's coming up in the future?
I'm excited about the remainder of the year. There is a re-issue of my debut album with extra bonus tracks of remixes and previously unreleased songs. Then later in November a new album with entirely new songs. I've been really working hard during this Covid-19 lockdown. It's been a blessing in disguise. I've been able to focus more on creating and producing better music. Sometimes that included going back and analyzing what I could've done better in the past; getting feedbacks from fans; getting ideas from my fellow musicians; etc. Introspection and regrouping can be tough at times, but at the end, it is definitely worth it.
Tell us where fans can access your music?
Feel free to drop by YouTube channel and subscribe to or my Spotify artist page.