Feature: Swing Special
Kai McKenzie
A t just 22, Kai has already developed a respected reputation for himself within the music industry as a top session vocalist. His
range is vast, with a powerful vocal delivery and a
rich, mature tone. Since his youth, Kai has always
enjoyed singing many different styles of music,
although swing still heads the top of his
personal favourites list.

When Michael Bublé released his first self-titled
album in 2003, Kai became an immediate fan and it
was soon after when he made the decision to start a
tribute show to the artist.

Still going strong today, Kai’s performance consists
of two 45 minute shows with a short break to
separate them.


The gig guide quizzed the star about music, life and Any venues in Kent that you’d like to play, but
his favourite things... haven’t yet?
“Yes actually, but I’m working on it! To be per-
What is your full name, how old are you and fectly honest, I’d just love to play somewhere
where did you grow up? that has a big audience, and a live swing band I
“I’m Kai McKenzie, I’m 22 and I grew up in could borrow for a song or two…. or maybe even
Orpington, Kent.” a whole set, who knows! For me to be able to
perform with a big swing band like Michael
How long have you been singing and did you bublé’s would be an absolute dream come true
have lessons or are you self taught? for me.“
“I’ve been singing for a good twelve years or so
and yes I’m self-taught.“ On the subject of Kent, do you have a
favourite act/band?
What is your favourite and least favourite “Yes, I used to know a guy called Danny
venue in Kent? Litchfield who I think is amazing. I haven’t seen
“I really couldn’t say. Each venue I perform for him recently, but I know he’s still out there
has a different atmosphere. At some places, playing in Kent. I’m going to try and find out
people get up and dance on the tables and we where he’s playing over the next few weeks and
have an absolute party. Some places just are pop down to see him when I get a chance.”
more relaxed and I find that the audience tend
to really listen to the performance, which is nice What are you listening to at the moment?
because you feel that each song is appreciated. “Well, in my CD Changer I’ve got a lot of Michael
As long as people enjoy the show, I leave a Bublé songs (obviously), One Republic’s album,
happy man.“ and I’m still enjoying a little bit of Amy
Winehouse. Also (rather randomly I might add)
So what is the biggest crowd you’ve ever I love my Tenacious D albums – they’re
played to (anywhere)? hilarious! Not many albums make me chuckle to
“I performed in a football stadium once a few myself whilst driving but once you get passed
years ago. I can’t remember how many people laughing at the lyrics, you actually notice how
the stadium held exactly but it was an amazing talented those guys really are!”
experience to hear applause like that. If we are
including TV performances, I sang on Michael
Barrymore’s TV show when I was younger and I
think the show had around four to five million
viewers. It was extremely cool and so fun to
do.”

p10 | The Gig Guide | September/October
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