AKB the “Indian Dentist Rapper” adds Momentum with Hukey Karan and “Kem?” (Why?)
Award-winning dentist/rapper AKB dropped another dynamic single with his most successful collaborator Hukey Karan—titled “Kem?”, which in the Gujarati dialect means, “Why?” On this joint, AKB raises common sense questions like, how come success bothers someone else? If someone grinds hard and moves forward in life, why then, should there be any envy or hatred about it? In the song “Kem?”, he draws inspiration from the success of superstars, gurus, friends, and family, hence the impetus for him to work hard.
As always, AKB connects the dots on this release with a stellar accompanying music video!!!
Passion Over Fame
In an earlier statement about the hit, AKB says that his journey into the world of rap was fueled by actual satisfaction and not in pursuit of fame, money, or any validations. “I got into this rap game because it makes me truly happy, not to chase fame or impress others,” he’s quoted. He doesn’t understand why it would bother others if he is trying to do it for himself and not in the spirit of competing. His day-to-day gig is providing service as a pediatric dentist (thus the name Indian Dentist Rapper) to a demo most likely to have a great fear of being treated by a dentist. AKB uses the proceeds of his work in his community of Bakersfield, CA as support for his dream. Nobody is giving him anything, and earns his way via his work ethic.
In “Kem?”, AKB credits Hukey Karan for pushing him and showing the way to start rapping in Gujarati. “I’m entering into the Gujarati rap scene like a boss on fire; one hit after another, but I would not have been able to do this without Hukey Karan leading the way,” he says. The motive is not envying, but giving credit where it’s due and a stepping stone to why Karan’s success helps grow the Gujarati rap scene, so he aims to do the same by representing his roots with pride.
Topping off the summer, AKB got two nods at the 2024 Bakersfield Music Awards: One for Hip Hop Single of the Year and the other being Video of the Year for the track banger “Young Brown Immigrant.” He successfully took the Video of the Year award, delivering a grateful acceptance speech during a packed event accompanied by his wife, who is also a pediatric dentist!
