Kevin Abstract: Self-Invented

Making leads in the world of R&B and hip hop, Kevin Abstract was first introduced to the industry in 2009. However, the singer does not limit himself to a single niche. So far, he has explored himself as a rapper, songwriter, producer, singer, filmmaker, and the leader of the ensemble, BROCKHAMPTON. As a musician, Abstract was highly influenced by Kanye West, Will Smith, and Nirvana in his early days.

Kevin Abstract first grabbed the world’s attention while he was touring with “The Neighborhood,” a Californian band. As he formed better ties with the lead singer of the band, the latter helped Kevin promote his album “American Boyfriend: A Suburban Love Story” on social media.

Even though Abstract had been actively releasing work in the past, none of it got the attention it deserved. Unfortunately, most of it was hardly noticed due to a lack of social media presence. From 2009 to 2011, he worked on three different projects, namely “KevinLovesYou,” “PinkElephants,” and “Imagination.” During the same time, he was also actively running a blog online.

His journey as a musician began in high school, where he created and performed in a band called ALIVESINCEFOREVER. However, it didn’t last very long as the lineup went through certain changes and became known as BROCKHAMPTON. After performing with the ensemble multiple times, Abstract finally decided to go solo in 2013, when he released his solo album called “Kevin Abstract EP.”

The year following this, he also released another solo album called “MTV1987.” However, he began working with the band again three years later, especially after their critically acclaimed “Saturation” series. The three albums in the saturation series and an LP called “indescence” were mainly responsible for the group’s mainstream success in 2018.

Moving back and forth from the group every few years, Abstract again decided to work solo in 2019. He revealed his project called ARIZONA baby before releasing the complete album in April.

Interestingly, Kevin Abstract had a rocky relationship with his parents when he was growing up in Corpus Christi, Texas. He also claimed that his family followed the Mormon faith and had a very strict outlook on life.

This could also have been part of the reason Abstract ran away from home at the mere age of 15. After living with a friend for almost a year, he moved to Georgia and temporarily moved in with his sister. What came rather as a surprise to many was that the singer came out as gay only a few years ago. His work is also often reflective of his sexuality. He has also expressed the desire to rap about being gay. Moreover, he also believes in using his voice to encourage others to come out.

Hence, so far, his journey as a musician has been a tough one. Filled with ups and downs and indecisiveness along the way, Abstract has still somehow found a way to stay true to his identity. As of now, Kevin Abstract is once again working with BROCKHAMPTON to release a new album.