Music has always been a piece of Devin Kennedy’s life. Whether it was learning how to play the drums, guitar and bass all before the age of 10, graduating from Berklee College of Music or becoming a sought-after writer and producer in the industry, music has played a vital role in who Devin Kennedy is.
After learning how to produce music during his high school years, Kennedy’s talent has led him to produce and collaborate with some world-renowned artists– from Broadway legend Ben Platt to OneRepublic’s frontman Ryan Tedder to Big Time Rush’s James Maslow.
“Working with various artists has always taught me the value of collaboration and the importance of staying open to new ideas,” Kennedy said. “Every time I collaborate with someone, I gain new insights about them and their artistic process, which I find fascinating.”
And now that he is creating his own EPs and debut singles, Devin knows what it means to develop a sound that is truly authentic to himself.
“My sound is a carefully crafted blend of R&B, alternative, and pop, with a focus on poetic lyrics and live instruments,” Kennedy said. “I differentiate myself by being involved in every aspect of my music, from writing and performing to producing. I’m always trying to create an authentic connection with my audience by sharing my personal experiences and emotions.”
His handcrafted blend of pop, R&B and alt sounds has resonated with listeners everywhere, as Kennedy has already amassed over three million monthly listeners on Spotify alone. Entering a new era of his music with the release of his new single “Fine Wine,” Kennedy invites his audience to dive deep into this heartfelt love song and understand the intimacy of a relationship on a whole new level.
“I wanted to express the depth of a relationship that grows stronger over time,” Kennedy said. “I hope listeners recognize the beauty of a deepening connection in a long-term relationship and appreciate how love can mature like fine wine.”
With both sides of the love spectrum, romance and heartbreak, being incredibly difficult to talk and be vulnerable about, Kennedy uses songwriting as an avenue to explore the uncomfortable.
“Writing about the intricate nature of love and heartbreak can be both therapeutic and enjoyable,” Kennedy described. “I find myself gravitating towards exploring both ends of the spectrum since that is essentially the essence of love. It ebbs and flows, comes, and goes, but remains inherently beautiful. I think I’ll always be drawn to writing about love because giving, receiving, and losing love is a universal experience.”
Unlike other recent singles released like “Love You Anymore” and “As Is,” “Fine Wine” feels more laid-back and has a lo-fi jazz-influenced sound according to Kennedy: “I enjoy experimenting with different styles and emotions in my music, and I believe that ‘Fine Wine’ is a prime example of a song that complements my overall sound while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of genre.”
With the release of “Fine Wine” came the announcement of Kennedy’s new album, California Rain, which is set to release on June 8. The inspiration for the title, according to Kennedy, “came from the fleeting nature of rain California, which always leaves you wanting more.”
Being authentic is key to Kennedy’s brand and artistry and California Rain encapsulates a new level of vulnerability: “I am proud of the authenticity and personal touch that I infused into California Rain. The attention to detail and love that went into making this project is unparalleled compared to any project I have previously worked on. Each song is like a puzzle, and although sometimes challenging, piecing it all together is the most enjoyable part of the process,” said Kennedy.
Even with how long his love for music has lasted, Kennedy’s passion is more powerful now than ever. There is never a moment where he does not feel for music: “It’s not so much a singular moment, but rather the entire process that I continually fall in love with. Every time I release a new song or perform live, I experience the same rush that has always fueled my desire to create.”
If there is anything you should know about Devin Kennedy at this moment, it’s that he is committed to connecting with the audience through his unique sound and genuine storytelling. Kennedy’s passion for the craft and his desire to constantly be evolving with his artistry is what makes him an artist to watch.
Listen to “Fine Wine” here.
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