Who Is Kai Rose?

Born Kel’Leiah McCarthy, Kai Rose knew early that she was born to make music and to spread the message of peace and harmony that her chosen moniker means. The middle child in a family that was actively pursuing rap careers, Kai followed her own path, penning poetry and producing beats for others. However, it was the trying times of her youth—moving from home to home and living in a hotel room—that helped build strong character and made her ready to branch out. At 15, she was scouted by an artist and repertoire representative/indie filmmaker who brought her to Charlotte, NC, to record beats for his films. Together, they also built a youth radio and television network called Next Kids Worldwide.

The exposure led Kai to be invited to travel independently as a motivational speaker for at-risk boys and girls. In her messages, she encouraged audiences to practice discipline, finish their education, take care of their physical health, and follow their dreams. That was also when she began interviewing other young artists and seeing the possibilities for her own future. Kai’s dream included becoming a philanthropist someday in order to have a bigger platform to encourage and support people.

Returning to Michigan, Kai began writing music again (some of it with her talented father, James McCarthy III). However, it wasn’t until early 2019that she felt ready to record. To that end, she started a record label called DA WAV LLC (an acronym for “Detroit Artist We Are Vibes”) with the intent of putting forth her own songs, as well as those of other rising stars in need of opportunity.

While some fans describe Kai’s music as pop or R&B, she calls it “chameleon funk” because “none of my songs sound like each other, even when they are in the same genre.” The artist, whose debut single was called “First Of All,” has been featured on Detroit’s FOX 2 News, Hot 107.5, Underground Summer Jamz and My TV20, The Mother Love Show on LA Talk Radio, and more.

Currently, she’s partnered with Parallel Sound Studios, which has collaborated on her other popular releases like “Truth Hurts,” “Pinky Promise,” and “Playa 2.” Kai has also released music videos via partnerships with HBkwan, Wesley Snipes, and GM Entertainment. Next, she plans to work with Atlanta’s Dollah Jones, who has shot with fellow Detroit natives, The Clark Sisters. “When I hop on stage,” Kai says, “it’s a reminder that I come from a place with soul and the roots of amazing creative and talented artists like myself.”

Citing Beyoncé, Megan Thee Stallion, Kehlani, H.E.R., Cardi B, and Ella Mai as her inspirations, Kai Rose intends to make “huge ripples” in the music industry.

Stay connected with Kai for upcoming announcements and releases here.