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Born and raised in the birthplace of Reggae Legend Bob Marley, in St Ann-s, Jamaica, Kehv like many other artists, got introduced to the world of music singing in the church choir. With no formal training, Kehv is now a master pianist as well as an accomplished guitarist. While playing both instruments by ear showcases his natural abilities, it-s his velvety smooth vocals that have listeners calling their local radio stations requesting his tracks "Masquerade", a single chock full of conscious social commentary, is currently being requested by listeners as far away as the UK.
After migrating to the United States, Kehv settled in Miami where he recorded his first single, "Half Way There" in 1995. Currently under the guidance of Bre Bre Productions, the singles "Double Exposed", "Believer", and "Masquerade" are on the radio stations most wanted lists.
Peppa Pot caught up with Kehv while he was preparing to appear on Celebrity Fest in Orlando, Florida.
Interview conducted by: Ms. Shilo of CelebrityPlus.net
Peppa Pot: I read in your bio that you play the piano and the guitar by ear. No formal training. Tell us about that. That seems like some major inspiration.
Kehv: It-s a gift from God that I watered over the years. I was fascinated by the piano at an early age so while at church I always went into the corners by my self where the piano was and played with it. I soon came to discover that I understood the concept of chords, harmony, melody and song form naturally. Over time I developed an interest in the guitar. I just went to a music store and bought the guitar I wanted to learn to play. That instrument was the hardest..I mean my finger tips were sore, my wrist, it was all a hot mess. At the end of it all I could say today that I could play it. That-s a great feeling I tell you.
Peppa Pot: As with most artists, you started out singing in the church choir. Have you ever thought about adding gospel as one of the genres in your catalogue?
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Kehv: I-ve thought about it and I really do not feel it-s necessary to label my music gospel. I definitely use the scriptures in my music but I am also using my life with my knowledge of the word to tell a story. Those of us who don-t listen to gospel music still need to know about God and by keeping it "real" with my fans they get to hear the good news with no pretense.
Peppa Pot: Brap Brap!!! Gun salute fi dat...your song "masquerade", I love the message...the strings takes me away. What was the inspiration behind the track?
Kehv: Frustration! I was really frustrated of this life and how things around me are gradually getting worse. As far back as I could remember to now our society, especially our black communities have been suffering. Knowing these things gets heavy on the heart, and that-s when I realized that our time here on earth is just but for a moment, a passing through. We as a people have to realize that we are sent here on a mission not to live it up and be comfortable because at the sound of the trumpet when Jahoviah calls his people that-s when peace that pass all understanding will set in. We have to help each other to see a better life, to live for something greater than ourselves.
Peppa Pot: Who are some of the artists that inspired you?
Kehv: Stevie Wonder and Ray Charles-they worked through their short comings with a powerful team. Bob Marley-opened many doors for us as Jamaicans Reggae artists today. Lenny Kravitz - he has a unique way of expressing himself that inspires me to not be afraid to be me. Michael Jackson- reminds me that with hard work and dedication you can accomplish many things, just use what the Father gave you.
Peppa Pot: I have a picture of you, Ky-Enie, Gyptian and others vibing in the hotel lobby last weekend at Celebrity Fest. You three make beautiful music. What was that vibe like?
Kehv: Magical is the only way to describe it. The vibes flowed so naturally like the waves. Song after song, laughs...it was a blessing to just be there that weekend at Celebrity Fest.
Peppa Pot: Where do you see yourself musically in say...five years?
Kehv: Established..
Peppa Pot: If not for the music...what would you be doing career wise?
Kehv: I-d be in the medical field. I love to help people feel better. I have a thing for creating comfort and smiles.
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