Ivan The Greatness Talks ‘Power 2030’
Ivan Kelley first burst onto the mainstream scene when he absolutely rocked viewers of the Ellen Degeneres show with a fully-fleshed, soulful cover of “Who’s Lovin’ You.” He was 11 years old… and we discovered him late in his story. For Ivan The Greatness, everything started in Chattanooga, TN. As the son of R&B singer Dirty Soul, he quickly discovered his love of—and talent for—music. By the time he appeared on the Ellen show, Ivan (then known as “Lilman”) had mastered tickling the ivories and strumming heartstrings with his angelic vocal cords, whether in church choir or talent shows. After the appearance on the show, he rose to such renown that he had to duck out of middle school to be homeschooled. Luckily, his family steered him clear of the typical child-star fate while he landed a role in Queen Latifah’s Joyful Noise and launched a matured R&B project under his own name. Now we’re seeing a new iteration of Ivan, as Ivan the Greatness. Releasing a stream of provocative and catchy singles leading up to his Unbreakable album, Ivan is teaching his committed fans how to step up and into new chapters of life. Buckle up; we’re all in for a meteoric ride.
Ivan the Greatness’s new single “Power 2030” is a drum-heavy electronic anthem to motivate people who don’t do it for the money. Over a non-stop, driving percussive backbone, Ivan chants and belts out his fearless and spirited attitude toward life. As the synthesizer and horns steam along, creating a futuristic ambiance, piano chords ground the song in reality—allowing us to stand firm and dream big dreams as we dance to this grown-up prodigy’s latest hit.
Directed by Paul Warner, the music video for “Power 2030” transports us to a whole new world. In a moody futuristic cityscape, Ivan crashes the scene like a superhero, costumed in a stylish mech suit customized from his spaceship above. As the song bumps in the background, we follow Ivan through his video game battles with robo-ghosts in pursuit of suitcases full of cash. What a world we’re in! If you end up a bit confused by the intense imagery, fear not—this is one part of a series spanning the entire Unbreakable album, where more will be revealed!
Ivan weighed in with The Hype Magazine on the new song
What inspired the futuristic sound of “Power 2030”?
I knew going into this song I wanted a driving anthem with a message that people can apply to everyday life. Pure motivation from the beginning to end!
What was it like growing up in Chattanooga, TN, with a musical family? How has that upbringing influenced you as a person?
Growing up in Tennessee was always good for me. Being surrounded by family and learning from them whether it was about music or learning about life. From Sunday service, singing and playing the drums, to performing on television. My family has always been in my corner and it keeps me humble! Definitely thankful.
How have you changed as an artist over the years, and how do you hope to grow as a creator in the future?
Over the years I’ve definitely grown. I’ve had a lot of time in the music industry to finally become who I am and what I want to present to the people. “Power 2030” is a lifestyle. Moving forward for the future I would love to collaborate more. Creating, producing, writing, performing, and just living and doing what I love to do.
What do you want listeners to take away from “Power 2030”?
I just want this to motivate people, wake up the sleeping potential some may not feel comfortable sharing. Don’t be afraid. I want them to pass it on to the next person. You never know who else may need that little nudge to get them through to the finish line!
Can you describe the process of creating the music video and its concept? What is your favorite aspect of the visual, and why?
This music video took time hard work, dedication, and a nice pocket of cash!! Such a great experience! Cold nights, early morningsk and I do my own stunts!!
What can fans expect from the Unbreakable album?
Fans can expect a great body of work, a lot of vibes from old school to new school to the future. It’s an insane visual album too. So, watch it as a movie too. To say the least you get it all. It’s something there for everybody. And I’m so proud and excited for it to drop
Follow Ivan The Greatness:
https://artistecard.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ivan.
https://twitter.com/IvanKelley
http://instagram.com/official_
About the Author
Dr. Jerry Doby Editor-in-Chief of The Hype Magazine, Media and SEO Consultant, Journalist, Ph.D. and retired combat vet. 2023 recipient of The President's Lifetime Achievement Award. Partner at THM Media Group. Member of the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture, the United States Press Agency and ForbesBLK.
