My name is Kahlil Daniel. My parents are Gwen Franklin and Doug Daniel! My mom has worked for Capitol, Mercury & RCA Records. My dad worked for Elektra, Arista & Interscope Records – both to name a few.
I think I would definitely fit into the category of “music industry baby,” lol. I have early memories of going on tours & conventions with my mom, going backstage at concerts and to video shoots like TLC’s “Waterfalls” with my dad. I was about 2 years old when my mom worked at RCA and I memorized every nook & cranny of SWV’s “It’s About Time,” before it came out! I’m sure it was a mix of some of that and Kirk Franklin’s debut album that led me to find my voice and realize my career path.
My first jobs were working for my mom’s Business/Artist Management company B Lifted Up!, and interning for Odyssey Entertainment. I graduated from Howard University in 2011 with a BFA in Theatre Arts – Acting, and started acting professionally in 2012 when I joined Actor’s Equity Association. In 2010, I formed my production company, Instinct Entertainment! Now, I continue to act in theatre, release new music, & perform in venues. In 2018 I released my second EP, “Higher,” which is available for download and currently streaming on all platforms. Last year I also had the honor to serve as the Music Director for the Classical Theatre of Harlem where I was nominated for an Audelco award, and continue to serve as the MD for my home church.
My ultimate goal is for my company to stand as one of the gatekeepers in Hollywood and abroad that mass produces music film and media. The biggest change I’ve noticed in the music industry is the emphasis from selling physical units to selling streams. I think the future of the industry will continue to see the rise of independent artists and companies that are less dependent on labels. I also see the continued globalization of black music and culture. A song that always humbles, inspires, and focuses me is “God Is Amazing,” by Deniece Williams!
Follow me on IG & Twitter @kahlilxdaniel and on FB at kxdmusic. Follow Instinct Entertainment on IG @instinctent, Twitter @instinctentinc and FB on the instinctentinc page
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