“Legal Dreamers,” Kevens’ latest single/music video, blends elements of reggae, hip-hop, and dub horns into a captivating and infectious ear.
On “Legal Dreamers,” Miami singer-songwriter Kevens extends a welcoming hand to immigrants, travelers and all those making their way in an unknown land. Furthermore, he encourages the lucky ones to put aside their doubts and greet the migrants with a spirit of shared humanity. It is a radical declaration of love.
His kinetic performances have made him a sought-after attraction at genre-defying festivals like Florida Zen, One Love Japan, and Earthdance. At the same time, his deep knowledge of Caribbean roots music has made him a favorite collaborator with members of Jamaica’s first musical family: he has collaborated with Stephen Marley and Damian “Jr. Gong”, and performed with many other island legends who acknowledge his knowledge, his integrity, and his imagination.
The animated video takes viewers around the world, juxtaposing Township’s dusty settlements and verdant jungle scenes with the skyscrapers of Europe and the busy streets of Asian cities. But wherever the animation takes us, we are shown the beautiful faces of humans who share the dream of a better life.
CelebMix caught up with Kevens to find out the inspiration for “Legal Dreamers,” how he got started in music, and his definition of tone.
What inspired your new single/music video, “Legal Dreamers”?
‘Legal Dreamers’ was a song that was in my files for years. After contracting Covid and losing my voice, I began retraining my vocal cords and was determined to do my best.
I saw a story online about how a US veteran was deported to Mexico; I decided to do a rewrite of the song right there.
How did you start in music?
In high school I took up the trombone and I loved it. I’ve been inspired by Burning Spear’s wind lines since I was a kid and one day I said, ‘I’d like to play them.’ When I didn’t make it into the Air Force after graduation, I found myself playing records at pool parties, weddings, etc. DJing other people’s music taught me about arranging very early on. So when I turned pro, that became a priority.
I have a page called ‘The Journey’ in the About section on kevens.com where you can read my story in more detail.
Did your sound evolve naturally or did you deliberately push it in a certain direction?
I’ve been pushing the envelope for a while; I had many failures, but I chose to never give up, no matter what.
How do you keep your sound fresh and avoid falling into the trap of imitating yourself or others?
I think once you find your sound, it’s hard to change that dial no matter what. I appreciate other artists, old and new, who have stayed true to their trades.
How do you keep your sound consistent on stage?
First, I make sure I work with the best musicians, the ones who can interpret my vision. There is a lot of preparation in my shows even before the band’s first rehearsal.
Is there any special recording technique that you use in the studio?
I have always chosen to work with producers who are musicians and know the mixer well. It all comes down to knowing what you want as a songwriter.
What is your definition of tone? And has your tone changed over time?
I really like this question. My tone has evolved as I’ve gotten to know myself better over the years. Many years ago when I started meditating, on my birthdays I would sit for hours, get up to stretch my legs, and then sit down again.
Almost 24 hours after that meditation, I heard the tone of my heartbeat; It was the most magnificent thing I have ever experienced. I think after that experience, I was never the same musically again; i evolved.
What inspires your writing? Do you draw inspiration from poems, music, or other media?
My inspiration comes from the Almighty. I pray before writing each song.
What can you share about your writing process?
When there is a topic of interest, I automatically start creating the first line and put a melody on it, then the second, and so on.
What artists, in your opinion, are killing it right now?
I had the great pleasure of meeting Iniko after her first concert in Miami the other day. I was really impressed by her interpretation and her songs.
What can your fans expect over the next six months? Music videos? Live concerts?
Right now, I’m focused on putting out the best music of my life and making sure all my fans listen to me and make new ones in the process.
My band is in place, as always. I will go on stage when everything is lined up, correctly.
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