Albums

Meet KES, Babyface & L.A. Reid’s First Joint Signee in 25 Years

blame it on Shake December 15, 2013
kes audio justice cover

Over the past two weeks I’ve received numerous emails about KES from my regular “suppliers” (aka PR people). Upon first listen of his Audio Justice EP, I can see why too. The Orange County-born, Compton raised singer/producer definitely has that “it” factor and shows his range on the five-track project. Melding ’80s flair with contemporary, genre-bending R&B, KES proves why he’s Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds and L.A. Reid’s first joint-signee in a quarter century.

 

Born in Orange County, KES’s family suffered a setback during his teen years, causing his mother to uproot the family to Compton. KES quickly adjusted and welcomed the transition but his observance of the wide gap between the haves and have-nots stayed with him and became the backbone for a lot of his songwriting. As a fan of David Bowie’s escapism, Depeche Mode’s industrial feel, Phil Collins’ ethereal melodies, and Prince’s limitless sexual energy and storytelling, KES uses these influences to create an futuristic retro sound all his own. From the East Indian influenced, “Arabian Paradise” to the ’80s nostalgia of “Gimmie Your Luv,” all five songs on Audio Justice show an incredible range in both production styles and songwriting techniques rarely seen contained within a single artist.

Take in Audio Justice below and let us know your thoughts in the comments!