By: Michael Madavi

Artist: Kero One
Title: Early Believers
Label: PLUG Label
Genre: Hip-Hop : Soul
Release Date: 4.7.09
UPC: 884501092654
Territories: World

Kero One is proof that with genuine inspiration, hard work, and a little luck, it’s still possible to find success in a corporate dominated music scene. A true testament to the DIY philosophy, in 2003 Kero One released a self produced, pressed, and released 12″ single on a fifty unit run. Per chance, one of those fifty copies ended up in the hands of a Japanese DJ who played the song that same night at a club to a strong reception resulting in many inquiries about the single, including from a Japanese label executive who contacted One to cut a distribution deal.

The record became an overnight success in Japan, resulting in a tour and a decision on Kero One’s part to quit his day job as a web designer, complete an album, and make music his true career. He finished his first album, Windmills of the Soul, in 2005, handling everything from playing instruments, rapping, and sound engineering. Without a strong label backing or a street team, Kero One handled almost all the business himself. From street promotions to production, he truly took a DIY path the whole way.

In 2006 his hard work paid off, earning many honors such as the title of Best HipHop Album of 2006 from Remix magazine, a top 10 record for iTunes Japan’s Hip Hop Charts, positive reviews from Urb and Spin magazine, and continued world touring. He continues to work and tour with artists like KRS1, DJ Kentaro, Talib Kweli, and Mark Farina’s Mushroom Jazz to name a few. He formed his own label, the Plug Label, in 2007 and opened his first office and recording studio in San Francisco. The label has found success with artists such as The Tones.

In 2009, Kero One presents his official sophomore album titled Early Believers. This is an album that bounces between soulful jazz tinged tracks to upbeat synth-driven party bangers showcasing Kero One’s growth and maturity as a writer, composer, vocalist and arranger. Although Kero One has already made some noise both overseas and domestically, it is his goal to make a deafening impact with this new album. As before, this album will release independently in hopes of penetrating the barriers set-up by corporate major labels, all on a do-it-yourself work ethic that Kero One knows best. Support your local talent and take a listen!