Rising Star Akeen Fennell ready for debut at Love Jamaica Festival
Published:Friday | November 22, 2024 | 12:05 AM
Fresh off his victory in the 2024 Digicel Rising Stars competition, Akeen Fennell, also known as Akeen Star, is ready to embark on his professional music journey. His debut live performance is set for the Love Jamaica Music and Food Festival at Hope Gardens in Kingston on Saturday. Additionally, Fennell will release two new singles, Every Christmas and Fighta, produced and released by Kingyard Productions on November 29.
Since winning the talent competition, Fennell has embraced his new reality saying:“Life has been crazy. Going on the street is not the same anymore; everybody knows your name, everybody knows your face – you can’t hide,” he shared. “I have grown immensely; my vocal capacity is now bigger and better. By the time I left the competition, I was in beast mode. I am just ready for the world, you know.”
Performing at the Love Jamaica Music and Food Festival is a dream come true for Fennell, who promises to deliver an unforgettable set.
“I am over the moon about it because this has been a dream of mine – being on stage and performing for a whole heap of people. A lot of people told me this wish would never come true, so seeing it happen is mind-blowing. The set we have in mind is designed to captivate the audience –it’s just for me to go out there and sell it.”
Fennell’s upcoming singles reflect his versatility and heartfelt connection to his music. Every Christmas, a reggae-infused rendition of Luther Vandross’s beloved holiday classic, is a deeply personal track for Fennell.
“That’s one of my favourite Christmas songs, so we started thinking of doing it over with a nice little reggae vibe. It speaks to a lonely time in my life that I’ll never forget. I think a lot of people can relate.”
Fighta is a motivational anthem inspired by his journey through the Digicel Rising Stars competition and his life’s challenges.
“ Fighta is just my story. It’s about how, despite everything that came against me, I stood firm and held on to what I believe in. It’s a song of strength, faith, and resilience,” he said.
Fennell’s musical roots run deep, beginning in the church choir and praise and worship team in Gayle, St Mary, where he grew up. His passion for music grew stronger during his time in the hotel industry, where he honed his performance skills.
“I am definitely a man of God; that’s where my music started, in church. I have a family to lead, and I am trying to lead in the best way I can,” he shared.
Now, as he embarks on his professional career, Fennell remains committed to staying true to his values and delivering positive, impactful music.
“I’m trying to stay true to myself in everything that I do. People tend to change after they enter the industry, but I’ve been praying about it. Nothing happens before the time, and now I feel ready.”