Entertainment
The Unstoppable Khemist: From Spoken Word Poetry to Rap Legend
You Think You know Khemist? You Might Change Your Mind After You Read This.
In today’s society, artists struggle quite ever to bring their music before the eyes and ears they have to prosper in their careers. An artist’s work is usually lost in noise with the sheer number of songs posted to Spotify or other streaming services every day . Not only does it hamper the event of a replacement artist’s career, but albeit you breach the barrier of entrance, it’s increasingly hard to stay on the circuit.
Who Is Khemist?
Most of you might know Khemist as an artist from Philly’s Logan Valley, Philadelphia-bred songwriter, MC, poet and prolific musician, Khemist is an award-winning, critically-acclaimed artist and bonafide lyrical force to be reckoned with. Khemist’s eclectic body of work reflects his bittersweet upbringing amidst the blighted streets of the hardscrabble city, yet defies falling into stereotypical music categorizations.
Influenced by greats, such as Sonia Sanchez, Ta-Nehisi Coates, Black Ice, Mums Da Schemer, Nas, Toni Morrison, Robert Browning, Nikki Giovanni and Octavia Butler, Khemist’s layered lyrics speak of survival and self-reliance, loss and longing, with a razor-sharp delivery that resonates with his legions fans, including Lauryn Hill, Black Thought, Bilal, and Pharoahe Monch.
Ironically, it was years of not speaking during his childhood — from fifth to eighth grade — that Khemist credits with leading him to a career as a journeyman lyricist. While at the playground, Khemist came across an injured bleeding man facing certain death. An older man told Khemist to keep his mouth shut about the shocking scene he just witnessed — and that is exactly what he did. In an instant, Khemist was robbed of his innocence by a death he never actually saw, but could not UN-see. Coupled with the trauma of the subsequent loss of friends to senseless crime and the American carceral system, Khemist became desensitized to violence, yet determined to serve as a voice for the voiceless.
A former workshop leader for the Philadelphia Youth Poetry Movement, Khemist cut his teeth writing poetry, listening to “The Come Up Show with DJ Cosmic Kev,” watching HBO’s Def Poetry Jam and battling on rap DVDs. Later, he would be honored, to finally be featured on Def Poetry.
Recording with leading producer Anwar Marshall, Khemist graduated from spoken word poetry and marathon freestyle rap to picking up a guitar at age 22. His willingness to embrace this new challenge and discomfort facilitated substantial artistic growth and liberated him to become more than an emcee. Pairing lyrical prowess with diligent musicianship, he developed a sound that reflects his encyclopedic-like knowledge of Black American musical folkways, as well as the vast, ambitious nature of his progressive sounds. It is this music that he believes to be the most important of his life.
Like Khemist, this is not just rap.
Khemist first made waves on the Puzzle Pieces mixtape. He followed with Death 2 Wack Rappers, hosted by Black Thought, and the Khemist x Aktive mixtape, featuring DJ Aktive. Khemist’s spoken word project, Lornda & Poems, is a heartfelt ode to his grandmother. Virginia radio fixture and Pusha T affiliate, DJ Rick Geez, joined Khemist on Scrap Metal. Written and recorded in one day, all in a Day’s Work, dials up the lyrical showmanship of Philadelphia rap lore. Khemist later connected with Zaytona on Wolves.
In 2019, Khemist caught the attention of music heads and fans all over with his music video, “I Been on a Budget”, as well as his live performance videos. A year later, he gained an even broader audience when he appeared on NPR Music as a guest performer with saxophonist, Teodross Avery, and received a Lennon Award for Songwriting for his song, upright.
After countless hours logged in the studio, Khemist’s forthcoming Khemtrails EP and impending full-length studio album are the culmination of his previous releases. He has moved into a new realm with his music on his upcoming EP, Khemtrails (Black Baby Digital). His “most honest music” to date and one where he “took ownership over each component of the music,” Khemist says that with Khemtrails he is living in his purpose.
Follow Khemist on instagram here
Stream Khemist’s latest EP, Khemtrails (Black Baby Digital), released on June 19, 2020 in honor of Juneteenth. For new music releases and tour dates, follow Khemist on social media, at @khemist_LV, or go to https://linktr.ee/Khemist.
Latest video release “Ruha Benjamin” inspired by the book Race After Technology by Ruha Benjamin
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Entertainment
Alexis Marrero the rising star from Cleveland
From the heart of Cleveland, Ohio, a 23-year-old sensation is carving her path in the music industry. Alexis Marrero, born on April 4th, 2000, embodies the spirit of pop-rock with her captivating vocals and soulful songwriting. Let’s delve into the journey of this remarkable artist, from her humble beginnings to her soaring achievements.
Alexis Marrero’s musical odyssey began seven years ago, fueled by a passion that ignited during a family trip to Maui at the age of 15. Inspired by the rich cultural fabric of Hawaii, she found her muse in a ukulele, a gift from her mother that transformed her into a singer-songwriter. Since then, Alexis has been unstoppable, enchanting audiences with her electrifying performances and heartfelt lyrics.
Alexis Marrero’s rise to prominence is marked by a series of notable achievements. From gracing Hollywood Digest’s prestigious lists to sharing stages with renowned artists, her journey is a testament to talent and tenacity. Highlights include her electrifying performance at Riptide Music Festival 2023, appearances on mainstream platforms like “On With Mario Lopez,” and securing a recurring role on season 3 of Sangre Negra. Additionally, her philanthropic endeavors, such as the “Saving Our Holidays Extravaganza,” showcase her commitment to making a positive impact beyond the stage.
Alexis Marrero’s path to success is woven with dedication and resilience. Balancing a demanding music career with her studies in Electrical Engineering at Cleveland State University, she epitomizes the essence of determination. Despite facing challenges, such as transitioning from solo tracks to performing with a full band, Alexis’s unwavering passion fuels her growth as an artist.
Drawing inspiration from icons like Miley Cyrus and Demi Lovato, Alexis Marrero’s music resonates with authenticity and emotion. Her eclectic influences, ranging from Paramore to YUNGBLUD, shape her distinctive sound, blending pop sensibilities with rock grit. Through her storytelling prowess, she aims to connect with listeners on a profound level, offering solace and solidarity through her music.
As she looks towards the future, Alexis Marrero is poised for even greater heights. With a new single release on the horizon and filming for Sangre Negra, her journey continues to unfold with boundless potential. From headlining iconic venues to embarking on a tour of southern California, her passion for music and performance knows no bounds.
In the ever-evolving landscape of music, Alexis Marrero shines as a beacon of talent and inspiration. From her roots in Cleveland, Ohio, to stages around the world, her journey exemplifies the power of perseverance and passion. As she continues to craft her legacy, her music remains a testament to the indomitable spirit of an artist on the rise. Stay tuned for updates on Alexis Marrero’s latest releases and performances by visiting her and following on social media platforms.
https://www.instagram.com/officialalexismarrero
https://linktr.ee/officialalexismarrero
Entertainment
Sheli Nan’s Journey through Continents and Genres
In the vibrant world of music, few artists can boast a journey as eclectic and inspiring as Sheli Nan. Born in New York in 1950, her life has been a harmonious blend of classical training, global exploration, and a commitment to music education. Let’s explore the extraordinary journey of Sheli Nan, a true musical virtuoso.
Embarking on a Global Journey
Sheli Nan’s musical pilgrimage began with encounters with legends like the Guarneri String Quartet and Igor Oistrach during her formative years. These experiences ignited a passion that would take her from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, to the Conservatorio Luigi Cherubini in Florence, Italy, and eventually to the rich musical tapestry of California.
Her three years in Israel and subsequent studies in Mexico, under the tutelage of Carlos Barajas, added diverse influences to her repertoire. In 1977, she arrived in the Bay Area, adopting the name Sheli Nan, under which she would make significant contributions to the world of music.
A Multifaceted Artist: Composer, Pianist, and Percussionist
Sheli Nan’s talents transcend conventional boundaries. As a composer, her 110 pieces in the ASCAP repertory showcase a unique fusion of Baroque, Classical, Latin, African, and Rock ‘n’ Roll influences. Her compositions, ranging from solo harpsichord and piano to orchestral works, reflect a commitment to embracing the diverse rhythms of the world.
But Sheli Nan is not just a composer; she’s also a virtuoso pianist and percussionist. Her ability to weave through different genres with ease is a testament to her versatility and dedication to pushing musical boundaries.
Educational Legacy: The Essential Piano Teacher’s Guide
Sheli Nan’s impact extends beyond performances and compositions. Her book, “The Essential Piano Teacher’s Guide,” is a practical guide for aspiring music educators. It goes beyond theoretical teachings, offering real-world insights on establishing a music studio and fostering community connections.
One notable feature of Sheli’s educational philosophy is the incorporation of a percussion workshop for schools. Inspired by her training with Nigerian percussionists Olatungi and Suru Ecke, this hands-on approach enriches the learning experience, providing students with a deeper understanding of rhythm and melody.
Recognition and Global Reach
Sheli Nan’s contributions have earned her honors from the National Academy of Music and The American Prize. Her music resonates not only in the Bay Area but also in Cuba, Argentina, Spain, Anguilla, and Mexico. Her ability to communicate with diverse communities has set her apart, creating a global audience for her unique musical language.
Conclusion: Sheli Nan’s Musical Legacy
As we trace Sheli Nan’s musical odyssey, it becomes evident that her legacy is one of innovation, versatility, and a dedication to sharing the universal language of music. Her compositions, performances, and educational contributions paint a vivid picture of an artist who has seamlessly woven her experiences into the very fabric of her music.
In an ever-evolving world of musical expression, Sheli Nan stands as a beacon, inviting us to explore the rich tapestry of global rhythms and harmonies. Her journey continues to inspire and reminds us that true artistry knows no boundaries. Sheli Nan’s musical legacy is not just a composition; it’s a symphony that echoes across continents and genres, creating a timeless resonance in the hearts of those who listen.
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