Bringing a beautiful voice that’s nothing short of amazing is the incomparable Kenya. Her musical offering, Jazz Made Rhythm, is a fresh take on some definitive standards. Breathing a welcomed change, her matchless sultry vocals on “I Can’t Help It” has hit the Top Ten on the United Kingdom Charts. She is an extraordinary talent.
The very first note on Jazz Made Rhythm validates that Kenya sings from her heart. This fact permeates through the entire collection as her emotions are easily expressed and felt throughout her music. The album opens on a high note with Kenya giving her spin on Bill Wither’s “Lovely Day.” She adds a very special and unique touch to this feel good tune. Working her outstanding vocal magic on Michael Jackson’s masterpiece “I Can’t Help It”, she effortless pays more than proper homage to the King of Pop by presenting the ultimate in performance.
Special guest Dee Wilson joins Kenya on a magnificent interpretation of “Summertime”. This collaboration is excellent and the exclusive arrangement is exceptional. In fact, this is by far a classic work of lyrical art. The surprising rhythmic impressions featured in “My Funny Valentine” and “He Loves Me” exhibits her incredible versatility in range and pitch. Kenya is a phenomenal, soulful songstress – a gift rarely seen.
Kenya McGuire Johnson’s (aka Kenya) musical career started when she was a child. However, after years of singing and countless piano lessons, music was put on the back burner as her nurturing spirit gave leeway to a career in physical therapy. In 2008, Kenya knew something was missing in her life but could not ascertain what it was. This left her in a state of despair as she stated, “I had some come to Jesus moments because I knew something was wrong.”
By chance she reacquainted herself with music and soon found her joy in it. Through a series of events she was soon in the studio doing what she loves. Since, she has opened for Lalah Hathaway and has performed at the Chicago House of Blues, The Biltmore in Los Angeles and numerous other venues. Kenya has not given up on her nurturing spirit. It has just taken another configuration – music.
