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The
Melting Pot NYC on |
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Artist, Photographer, DJ/Music Producer
As one half the production team and visionary behind the innovative band “3 Generations Walking”, MKL’s unique fusion of sounds is earning him global recognition. 3 Generations Walking debut single “Slavery Days” enjoyed widespread critical acclaim and shed light on a talented group of musicians, whom MKL and Soy Sos have pooled together. “People appreciate innovation and honesty in music. That’s what 3 Generations Walking is about. On our debut album, you might hear Reggae, Blues, Creole, Dub, Electronica, Jazz, Soul and Deep House all blended into something I feel is a step to the left of the norm,” says MKL. In terms of how 3 Generations Walking has influenced him as an artist, MKL states, “The people involved have helped me learn so much about music fundamentals. My education in production was based on deejaying, while my band mates have been formally trained. It reinforces the idea that even from these different approaches, bottom line, is the desire to take music to a higher level.” In addition to his production, MKL has taken on remix projects which include: "Survival" (MKL & Blaze remix), Rhythm Media, “More Of Your Love” Annekei (MKL Vs Shan Boogie), R2 Records/Lion1music, Femi Kuti’s “What Tomorrow Will Bring”(Spiritual Life Music), “Dub Side Influence” WARE (Nite Grooves), “Hope” Fat Freddy Drop (Kartel) and Yellow Productions’ “Like Ours” by Tom & Julie Dexter. Expanding from his debut album, MKL started LION1MUSIC in 2004. He has released three singles…two of which can be heard on his Lion1music/R2record CD release "MKL presents Suits & Dashikis" (2006). Besides his passion for music, MKL is a photographer whose work has been featured in publications like Esquire, Fortune, NY Magazine, New York Times, Vibe and The Source. MKL’s musical roots and visual inclination have led established Fashion Designers and Choreographers to seek his talents. When asked how he balances out all of his artistic endeavors, MKL states, “Ultimately, it’s all about keeping the creative coals burning on every level.” As MKL develops his musical artistry and shares it with the world, along with his new record label Lion1music, there is no doubt that his sound will embrace audiences new and old. Songs
produced & released by: "MKL presents Suits & Dashikis" CD, Lion1music/R2 Records 6/2006 “Worth Your While” Autumn,
Produced by MKL,Lion1music, 9/2005 Remixes/Compilations
"Survival" (MKL & Blaze remix), Rhythm Media, 9/2006 Upcoming Releases “Baby
Did You Hear” Dinah Washington (MKL Vs. Soy Sos Garifuna Remix)
(6/2006) |
The
International Flare of artist/ producer/ DJ
MKL stems from his birthplace of Belize and his upbringing
in New York City. As a teenager in the midst of the Hip-Hop revolution,
it was MKL’s circle of friends who influenced his musical taste,
and ultimately sparked his desire to start dee-jaying. “It was
the mixing aspect that really drew me in. The ability to take people
on a journey via projection of one’s own vibe was an art form
I fell in love with”. With over 20 years of spinning under his
belt, he has graced the decks both as a resident and guest DJ at many
of NYC’s top venues including: Nells, Body & Soul, Joe’s
Pub, Apt, Cielo, Giant Step, Love, and Central Park’s Summer Stage
to name a few. MKL frequents venues playing in Russia, Turkey, Japan,
Europe, Canada, Dominican Republic and across the US.Needing another
medium to express himself musically, MKL started producing. It was a
natural transition and a way to reach worldwide audiences. Since teaming
up with producer Soy Sos in 1998, the duo “MKL Vs. Soy Sos”
have turned out several hits including, “Skin”, and “Slavery
Days”, which can be heard on compilations like “Buddha Bar
Vol. 1”, Fabric 12, South Port, Trip Do West & Phil Asher’s
“Jazz in The House 2”,