Evolving is my calling.
Photo by Ahron Foster.
In 2020, Kenny Alvarez was named Tenant of the Year by the Supportive Housing Network of New York.
For the full article published by The Doe Fund, click here.
Kenny M. Alvarez or I.K.P. (The Infamous King of Positivity) was born in Brooklyn with music in his life. Kenny grew up with Honduran parents, who were passionate about self-empowerment and community. That inspired Kenny to join the military, where he received an honorable discharge. Kenny turned his energy into making music and bringing strength into the LGBTQIA community, becoming the artist I.K.P.
In 2011, I.K.P. released his debut independent album, “Ignoring the Known Protocol.” The debut single and video, “Let It B. Known,” set the tone for themes on acceptance and equality, which continue to persist in musical releases and energy. The single was nominated at the OutMusic Awards, a non-profit organization offering a platform for recognizing LGBT artists and culture. I.K.P. continued his musical journey and success with more musical releases. I.K.P. was nominated at 15th Annual Independent Music Awards in 2016.
His music catalog keeps on adding great tracks and videos. The video for the single “Hunt Me Down,” was a stylish, conceptual piece that was recognized as “Best Video So Far” at the 2014 RightOutTV Awards, another LGBT community honor. I.K.P. followed up with his first mixtape, “I.K.P. 4 President Part 1: E Pluribus Unum,” then his second independent project, “Executive Realness.” I.K.P.’s music is a realistic portrait of the lives of blacks and LGBTQIA people living in America. The artist is getting ready to release an album in 2021 titled “11:11.” He also has many singles set to release later this year.
I.K.P. has been most inspired by artists Missy Elliott and the Notorious B.I.G. They have inspired his unique sound and helped I.K.P. bridge the gap between musical genres. I.K.P.’s music is about perseverance, acceptance, and resilience. He wants his music to heal and uplift others. I.K.P.’s plans for the future are to release his next E.P., “RADICALIZE,” in November. Two more musical projects will follow this. I.K.P. wants to set an example for LGBTQIA rappers and to start a production company to help foster their talents. In his spare time, I.K.P. hosts a bi-monthly video podcast called The Herbal Tea Podcast that reviews music from the LGBTQ+ community.