Kenny Robinson: Anointed Voice

Let’s hop right into this latest single, “Something Good” — Tell me about this particular track; how did it come to fruition?

“Something Good” was written during the pandemic in 2021. I lost both of my parents within a 10-month period. Like most people around the world in the midst of the plague, I experienced great loss. The song was intended to encourage the world that although “bad” things happen in our lives that God always finds a way to turn them around for our good. It’s (a) reminder that “Something Good” is about to happen.

Of course “Something Good” comes courtesy of your debut solo LP, UNCOMPROMISED — What all can you reveal and / or divulge about upcoming said body of work?

UnCompromised will refresh, inspire and provide a temporary escape for the circumstances of life for anyone who listens and wants to just reflect on good music. All of the songs were strategically written and co-produced by me. I also composed all of the melodies to deliver a sound and style you don’t generally hear in the Gospel genre; from the song choice to the playlist order. When you’re listening to the album, it feels like it’s coming across your radio with its unique mix of ballads, up-tempo, worship, traditional and contemporary songs. I wanted to present songs that reach everyone. It opens with an up-tempo chant on “Child of Jesus,” which is a simple and fun sing-along for children and adults. People will enjoy the quartet styled, kind of churchy throwback, hand clapping and foot stomping track “Calls for Me.” Also, my next single release titled “Trust You” definitely relates to today’s times of unrest, instability and economic uncertainty that we are all facing. It encourages us to continue to “Trust God” no matter what challenges we face.

How then does this new material(s) either differ and / or compare to previous Kenny Robinson entries?

This project is my first debut album and I’m super excited to have completed it. Working on it allowed me to showcase my vocal range, diverse writing ability and producing capability. I wrote the entire album myself and produced a portion of it.

As a songwriter, when you sit down to pen your lyrics, where do you draw your inspiration from?

My inspiration comes from my life experiences. I never want to just sit down and make up a song. I want every song I present to the world to flow from a unique place within me. I believe that if I pour my heart into my music that it will overflow into the hearts of those who hear it and change their life.

Reflecting, tell me your whole inception into music — When did you first become interested in it? And, how did it all begin for Kenny Robinson?

My interest in music began when I was a child growing up in the children’s choir and eventually into the main choir. I further enhanced my knowledge by joining the school’s chorus in junior and senior high. Growing up, my parents always listened to Gospel music daily, and that cultivated my love for all music. As long as it’s pure and has good lyrical content. I’m more of a fan of the lyrics than I am of the songs.

Where exactly do you hail from? And growing up there, who all did / do you consider to be your strongest musical influences?

I was born and raised in Fort Pierce, Florida. The biggest musical influence would have to my dad. It is from him and my grandmother that I inherited the gift to sing. He was a very popular regional singer. So, for a while, as a teen singer, I was more so known as “Bobby’s son” rather than Kenny. LOL!

In having said that, how do you classify your overall sound and / or style?

You can hear some Mahalia Jackson as in the passion when I’m singing a song, and Kirk Franklin because of the strong lyrical content, with a blend of CCM [Contemporary Christian Music]. Because I listen to all genres of Christian music; from traditional, contemporary and contemporary Christian, each of these sounds has an influence in my creativity. I like to compare my music to a smoothie. It’s soothing and uplifting.

Switching gears here…

What do you feel will be the key to your longevity?

My motivation is to always focus on strong lyrics that serve a purpose for people from all walks of life, and the style in my sound which sets me apart from music that’s being played today. When people hear my voice and listen to my music, they’ll be able to quickly identify that it’s me. Also, my commitment to excellence and my value in the importance of nurturing the relationships that I have built in the industry. Cultivating my relationships with the people I meet on my journey is important to me.

What do you want people to get from your music?

Simply put: Hope, Encouragement, a sense of Peace and a connection with God. I want my music to be a place of retreat when a person might be going through trials and tribulations in their life and need reassurance.

On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of music?

Yes, because music continues to be the primary source of entertainment and still maintain its ability to cross language and cultural barriers that helps connect the world.

Do you have any other outside / additional aspirations, maybe even completely away from music?

Yes, I’m a community volunteer for “Building Homes,” want to continue being an advocate for men and women in the U.S. Armed Forces and keep volunteering in my community to help others, whenever I’m needed.

To date, what has been your greatest career moment(s), at least thus far anyway?

Being an independent artist, launching my independent label, A.V. Entertainment, and making the Billboard Gospel Airplay Charts with my first two singles. My debut single, “My Due Season,” peaked #28 in 2019. My latest single, “Something Good,” peaked at #14 this year. I would include being part of the Celebration of Gospel at the 2022 Essence Music Festival and being blessed to share the stage with gospel greats like Byron Cage, Jekalyn Carr, Joshua Rogers, Maurice Griffin and more. I learn a lot from them.

What’s an average day like for you?

Everyday prayer and giving thanks for all my blessings. My wife and family are the joys of my life. We spend a lot of family time doing memorable things together.

Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans…

I like to refer to them more as “supporters.” Anyone who purchases, streams, shares music, or attends a concert is someone who backs you and is committed to your craft. So, supporter is my preferred term. That’s how I see them because that is truly what they are. It’s by their support of my music that I am able to continue to create more music that will, in turn, support them in their time of need for an uplifting song. We are helpers, one to another. I personally think the term fan causes one to not view them as a person, but as an object to be acquired and it creates separation. I like to feel connected to my supporters. If they take the time to comment on a post or video, I will take the time and respond to every single comment on social media or YouTube, personally. I never want to view myself as greater than anyone. I’m just blessed with a unique gift that someone happens to enjoy experiencing. That’s all. I appreciate all of my supporters.

What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?

In short, my favorite part is when a person contacts me and shares with me how much my song helped them in their time of need. That is what it’s all about, helping my fellow man. I live for that.

What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?

I would say to a person to follow my footsteps only until you find your own path. Use what I and others have done as a template, but fill in your own details. Everyone’s destiny is different and there are certain doors that only you can open. God will lead you to the right people and guide you to the right place, at the right time; when it’s time for your elevations. Just as He has and is doing for me. But you must remain diligent in your pursuit until you reach the path you must take. Keep the faith.

Any “closing” thought(s) for our readers?

I just want to say, “THANK YOU!” to every one of you who have supported my music and to those of you who will discover it and begin supporting me…I love and appreciate you all. Don’t forget to follow on the various social outlets and add me to your music playlist. Thank you also for taking the time to interview me. I’m grateful!