In the ever-evolving landscape of Alternative R&B, few artists have made waves as quickly and authentically as Ares Kennedy. Hailing from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Kennedy is redefining what it means to blend soulful vulnerability with experimental soundscapes. His debut EP, Lilac State, is a powerful introduction, offering a deep dive into the complex emotional world of a Black queer artist navigating love, heartbreak, and the nuances of self-discovery. With a distinctive voice, a growing fanbase of 76,000 followers on TikTok, 91,000 on Instagram, and a sound that sets him apart, Ares Kennedy is quickly emerging as an artist to watch in 2024 and beyond.
A Journey of Pain and Power
Ares Kennedy’s personal story is deeply embedded in his music. Growing up in a homophobic family in Wisconsin, Kennedy wasn’t truly able to express himself until he moved out at the age of 18. His experiences of repression, emotional turmoil, and ultimate liberation form the backbone of Lilac State, an EP that channels the artist’s journey into a cohesive narrative of vulnerability, healing, and empowerment. Every track on the EP feels like an intimate conversation—honest and raw—between Kennedy and his listeners as he processes the pain he has endured and begins to carve out his path toward freedom and authenticity.
For Kennedy, Lilac State is not just a collection of songs but a cathartic release. He created the EP as a means of processing and overcoming the heartbreak and pain he’s experienced, particularly the struggles of growing up queer in a conservative, unsupportive environment. The title Lilac State itself evokes a state of bittersweet nostalgia, combining the softness and resilience of lilac flowers with the deep emotional layers of his personal experiences. Yet, despite the darkness that permeates much of the EP, the music also offers a sense of hope and empowerment. It celebrates the artist’s resilience and the strong support system of best friends who helped him through those difficult times, allowing him to find his voice and his purpose.
A Sound All His Own
Musically, Ares Kennedy is a force to be reckoned with. Tapping into the depths of Alternative R&B, his sound is rich with influences from rock, neo-punk, and electronic music, creating a sonic palette that feels both innovative and deeply personal. Kennedy’s ability to blend these genres so seamlessly makes Lilac State a standout body of work in a space often dominated by more conventional R&B melodies. His voice is haunting, soulful, and laden with emotion, carrying the weight of his experiences in every note.
One of the EP’s highlights, Cool on You, is a perfect example of Kennedy’s genre-blending approach. The song is a moody, introspective piece that explores themes of love and detachment, layering his evocative vocals over a textured, atmospheric production. Similarly, Silence showcases Kennedy’s ability to create deeply personal narratives within his songs. The track is both haunting and beautiful, a meditation on the quiet pain of heartbreak, with minimalistic production that lets Kennedy’s voice and lyrical depth shine.
Kennedy’s use of instrumentation throughout the EP is also noteworthy. From acoustic violins that add a classical, haunting edge to some tracks to gritty synths that bring a more modern, electronic vibe, Lilac State feels like a fully realized artistic statement. Tracks like Fire and Weak 4 U reveal the range of Kennedy’s sound, blending soulful R&B with alt-rock and electronic influences in ways that feel fresh and original. His ability to experiment with genre while maintaining emotional and thematic coherence makes the EP a standout project in today’s music scene.
One of the most powerful songs on the EP is Can’t Tell, a track that’s already capturing the attention of both fans and industry insiders. The song is a perfect encapsulation of Kennedy’s ability to blend sensual, soulful vocals with a pulsating beat, creating a sonic experience that feels intimate and epic at the same time. The lyrics speak to the fleeting nature of happiness, love, and time—an ongoing theme in Kennedy’s work—and the urgency of trying to hold onto these moments before they slip away.
Breaking Boundaries as a Queer Black Artist
In addition to his musical talents, Ares Kennedy’s identity as a queer Black artist makes him a particularly important voice in today’s music landscape. As the industry continues to diversify and embrace more inclusive storytelling, Kennedy stands out not only for his music but for his unapologetic authenticity. His experience growing up in a conservative environment as a queer person of color informs much of his work, giving it a level of emotional depth and personal stakes that resonate deeply with listeners who share similar experiences.
A Growing Fanbase and Industry Buzz
Ares Kennedy’s debut EP, Lilac State, has already surpassed 500,000 streams across platforms, signaling a strong start for the emerging artist. His unique blend of alternative R&B, raw lyrics, and experimental sound resonates with listeners and catches the attention of the music industry.
Kennedy recently secured a publishing deal with Page Publishing, further expanding his reach as a songwriter and artist. This partnership, alongside his Joint Venture with Noir Music Group—a fiscally sponsored label under Paramount Recording Studio—positions Kennedy for continued growth. These key collaborations provide him with the resources and industry connections necessary to elevate his career while still maintaining his creative control and authenticity.
With these achievements, Lilac State is just the beginning for Ares Kennedy, who is set to become a standout voice in Alternative R&B.The Future of Ares Kennedy
As Ares Kennedy’s star continues to rise, it’s clear that Lilac State is just the beginning. He’s already laid the groundwork for what promises to be a transformative career, and his influence is only set to grow. With the Alternative R&B scene embracing more diverse and experimental voices, Kennedy is poised to become a leading figure in shaping the genre’s future.
In an industry often obsessed with fitting into trends and chasing viral moments, Ares Kennedy’s refusal to conform has made him stand out. His music reflects his truth, and that honesty will continue to draw people to his work. For listeners who are seeking an artist who challenges norms, pushes boundaries and remains deeply personal and relatable, Ares Kennedy is the one to watch.
As Kennedy’s journey unfolds, one thing is certain: this is an artist who is here to stay. Lilac State is only the first chapter in what promises to be an incredible story, and the world is eager to see what comes next.
Stream Lilac State on Apple Music and other platforms.
Follow Ares Kennedy:
https://many.bio/areskennedy