OVERVIEW
Born and raised in Chicago, IL., McKennen Campbell is an explorer of art.
His works are primarily in music and theatrical performance.
His creative exploration spans singing, composing, writing, producing, directing, acting, and dramaturgy.
CREATIVE
UPBRINGING
McKennen cites that he developed an affinity for storytelling from having a comprehensive arts education.
Through education, he was classically trained in music and other art forms since the age of 5.
His most notable experiences are in singing, composing, music directing, piano, and theatre.
Starting at a young age, McKennen built his performance experience in choirs, bands, and musical theatre.
He performed music in venues to thousands of people throughout Chicago
such as the Huntington Bank Pavilion, Harris Theater, Auditorium Theater, and Orchestra Hall at Symphony Center.
McKennen was raised by a community of artists
who exposed him to a wide range of artistic forms, genres,
and education on performance history.
This upbringing influenced him to take an eclectic approach to the art he creates.
MUSICAL
IDENTITY
McKennen's current music introduces an eclectic sound he calls "g**** ****"
[name will be revealed after "project >02."]
This sound blends elements of
classical music, experimental electronic music, hip-hop, jazz, R&B, pop, and soft rock.
This sound marks the first period of creative exploration in his music career.
When composing, McKennen uses an approach he calls "digital composing."
He builds each song from scratch and writes note by note
for every instrumental line in a DAW.
He tends to compose with larger projects in mind.
In addition, he arranges all of his vocals
and has full creative control of his sound.
His creativity is a hypothesis for the future of pop.
His current sound explores a reality
where electrifying symphonies can underscore our world in the 21st century.
THEATRICAL
IDENTITY
His theatrical expression includes playwriting, dramaturgy, producing, directing, acting, management, to administrative work.
He uses dramaturgical skills by incorporating research and opportunities for community building in his projects.
His original plays address socio-political topics in the 21st century and explores group dynamics.
These plays include, The Trial of Errors, What's The Resolution, and Working Title.