Attributing an Artist: Kevin Abstract

Artist Highlights:

Kevin Abstract

A hero of the post-modern R&B wave, and proficient at hip hop, Kevin Abstract is a welcome addition to the 21st century music scene. As part of the hip hop collective BROCKHAMPTON, Kevin has already reached fame beyond his wildest dreams with millions of adoring fans across many ages. Yet his solo career is not as often noticed, which is a crying shame considering the beauty of his work and the powerful messages you'll find in his lyricism. 

His album 'American Boyfriend: A Suburban Love Story' was the first I had heard of him, before I was made aware of BROCKHAMPTON, and just listening to the songs one-by-one it was so easy to listen to the melodies and messages in his compositions. For example, my favourite song by Kevin 'Empty' speaks a lot about Kevin's own troubles growing up knowing he was a gay, black man. He demonstrates the issues with his relationships, especially his mum, and how torn you can be between what your heart wants and what other people tell you. 

The video above is one of his newest releases from his EP 'Arizona Baby' named 'Peach', and shows his more modern approach to the R&B genre, which is clearly inspired by soul music, and also his capability to perform his iconic spoken word style raps, which remind me a lot of slam poetry. His verses are succinct and flow like a rap verse, yet there is still a clear melody and rhythm I associate with scat style music. Like many of the artists I feature on this blog, he is multifaceted with his talents in direction and filmography. He's worked on short films, which include his music (they only further the deeper connections in his lyrics to his own life). If you want an honest musician who creates content for a purpose other than money or fame, and because of true passion instead, then Kevin Abstract is the man for you. And whilst you're checking him out, give BROCKHAMPTON a listen too, for a similar style, just with more pizzazz and people.