12-year-old ready to shock the world

Canada-based reggae artiste Kairo McLean believes that he is poised for great success in the world of music.

The 12-year-old began playing the drums at the age of three, and by the time he was five, he was also playing the acoustic guitar. Soon after that, he began performing at music festivals all over Canada. His most notable appearances were at Rasta Fest and Jambana, both held in 2017.

"My dad is a musician; he plays the drums. I grew up watching him play with different bands all over Toronto. I was exposed to music from an early age, that's what inspired me to learn to play the drums and the guitar. As I grew older, I began singing, too," said McLean. "Some of my other musical heroes are Bob Marley, James Brown, Michael Jackson and Stevie Ray Vaughan. These artistes have made a tremendous impact on the world with their music, and I would like to do the same thing with my music."

The multi-talented singjay recently made his recording debut with the release of a four-track EP, titled Easy Now. Produced by Canadian musician Tim Dub, the EP was released on April 16 on the Willow Records imprint.

The first single from the project is the title track. A supporting video was shot and directed by Canadian music director Chuckie of Daley Works Entertainment. The video was released on April 26.

POSITIVE RECEPTION

"I'm pleased with the response that my EP is receiving. It's getting strong support from DJs in Canada, Jamaica, Europe and the States," said the youngster.

McLean was born in Toronto, Ontario. His father, Garvin McLean, is Jamaican, and his mother Kim McLean is Canadian of Jamaican descent.