HUMAN
Kevin Nathaniel

Kevin Nathaniel

mbira, jazz

Range and Influence Profile

27% of total potential influence has been identified.

27%

Trending in Kevin Nathaniel’s World

Playlists & Collaborations

Midday Jazz

Midday Jazz

Keep the ambience calm with these sweet midday Jazz.
Calm Morning Jazz

Calm Morning Jazz

Calm Jazz to the morning

Story

Quick Facts

Born
1960
From
United States of America

Journey

Kevin Nathaniel Hylton, born on March 16, 1960, in Detroit, Michigan, is a multifaceted artist celebrated for his profound contributions to mbira music. His journey into the musical realm began at Yale University, where he initially pursued the visual arts. However, a deep resonance with African musical traditions, particularly those centered around healing, led him to transform his path. Under the tutelage of master musicians like Ephat Mujuru and Chief Bey, Kevin embraced the mbira and shekere while exploring jazz, qgom, ogene, and amapiano. As a founding member of influential musical groups such as the Spirit Ensemble and the Heritage Percussion Ensemble, Kevin has been pivotal in popularizing these traditional sounds. His own ensemble, Moment, epitomizes his innovative spirit, pushing boundaries while nurturing a deep emotional connection with listeners globally. Kevin's engagements in workshops reveal his commitment to educating others about world percussion and the art of crafting traditional instruments, furthering the reach of these ancestral sounds. With collaborations spanning artists like Bobby McFerrin and Miriam Makeba and featured performances at notable events worldwide, Kevin Nathaniel remains a beacon of cultural and musical synthesis that continues to inspire and heal.

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