Kenne’ Smith Musical Direction, Keyboard, Vocals Kenne’ is an accomplished self- trained pianist, vocalist, composer, arranger and songwriter. Born in Houston, Texas he began playing at the age of 11. As a professional musician, Smith has worked relentlessly on his craft for over forty years. As a solo artist he has opened for Jazz great Roy Ayers and backed-up R&B group The Manhattans, Miki Howard, Gene Chandler. His most notable appearance was playing with the legendary Lionel Hampton. Kenne’ toured and performed for over fifteen years as the Music Director with nationally renowned playwright and poet Thomas Meloncon. He was a regular performer on Houston’s Channel 51 with the Horace Young Jazz quartet. Smith has performed for high profile Houstonians including Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, and Mayor’s Bob Lanier and Lee P. Brown. He is a composer, arranger and producer with hundreds of original compositions to his credit. Kenne’ resides in Houston with his wife and children. When he’s not performing he teaches piano and vocal lessons. Kenne’ has been actively involved in youth music enrichment programs for over twenty years.