Xavier Keyz
-Burgeoning singer, songwriter and music producer Xavier Keyz has no intention of redefining R&B. On the contrary: It is his passion for classic soul that continues to make the artist a standout among so many gimmick-ridden acts currently pervading the airwaves.
For those looking for proof in the number, Keyz’ recently released melodic pop/R&B single “Clap” has garnered more nearly 9,000 hits in under a week. Adding fuel to the fire, he is set to release his full-length album “Monday Thru Sunday” on December 4th.
Born and raised in Chicago, Keyz (a.k.a. Cameron Frazier) began singing at age 2(!). He recalls, “It was Faith Evans’ hit ‘Soon As I Get Home.’ I sang it out loud to my parents and friends and they all gave me this look of surprise. I was just learning to speak and yet I was delivering verses and choruses... and they were in tune!”
From that point on, there was little doubt that music was destined to become the major force field in his life. He took to the piano as if he had played it all of his life—playing any song by ear. And thus was born his lifetime moniker: Xavier Keyz.
Ever working to increase his talent, Xavier Keyz was in the right place at the right time, joining Chicago’s Children’s Choir, and then a cappella sextet the Harmony Brothers at Kenwood Academy during high school. They sang at basketball games and other local functions around Chicagoland area, hoping to make a name for themselves.
After downsizing to four members and then to two (as J2), Xavier Keyz and his partner released a full-length album, “Another Level” in 2012. It was three months later when Xavier realized that his best shot at notoriety was as a solo artist. Meanwhile, he was wise enough to fortify his talent with college studies in Television Production and Communications at Kennedy King.
But music remained Priority No. 1: Keyz’ first official step into the solo music realm was single “Trip To Mars” in the fall of 2013, which was followed in February 2014, by love song “Nobody Else but You,” a collaboration with songstress B.Lin. That became the game-changer for Keyz, creating massive buzz in the Midwest—and then beyond—including positive press on USAToday.com, thisisrnb.com and Youknowyougotsoul.com.
“I’m the perfect example of someone that knows that if you believe in yourself and never allow your vision to be diminished by circumstances or the negativity of others, success will find you. I know I have what it takes to shine in a crowded field. It takes perseverance, of course, but this is where I belong. Next year by this time, I have a strong feeling that my name will be known!” (Source: Facebook)
R.O.E
"With his hometown of Chicago on his back and the sounds of soul in his roots, R.O.E. blends an urban vibe with poetic lyricism and music that hits straight to the heart that will attract anyone with an affection for alternative hip hop.
Since his early days, R.O.E.’s message has revolved around an inquisitive boy-meets-world mentality with self-aware storytelling illustrating his everyday. On something bigger, something better, R.O.E. vibes a stirring and meaningful portrayal of life while pushing naysayers aside and Rising Over Envy.
In 2011, R.O.E.’s debut EP A Backpacker Named R.O.E. piqued the interest of Chicago-area fans and blogs immersed in the hip hop scene and started to entice radio spins with its soulful beats, unconventional hooks, compelling lyrics, and independent sound. With the debut marking his official foray into music, the EP’s concept was simple: introducing his essence to the world. Its success would lead to video projects, larger shows, and nationwide tours. After building a foundation for his sound, R.O.E. dedicated the next couple years to growing his fanbase, collaborating with acclaimed producers, songwriting and offering the ultimate live experience with his full band, The Soulvillians.
The long-anticipated 2014 release of the To Happiness EP chronicles the Chicago emcee’s mindset since A Backpacker Named R.O.E. and lives up to expectations with his signature artistic flow, clever writing, and the natural chemistry between the lyrics and beats. The 5-track EP’s cohesive vision delivers a short, yet rich and experiential trip through what it’s like to be him: an established artist traveling, reaching, living, and not letting negativity get in the way.
Today R.O.E.’s focus is on playing shows, touring, and producing videos to promote To Happiness while working on his first full length album."
Rising Over Envy