Meet Kiwan
Landreth-Smith
My Musical Journey
Hi, I’m Kiwan Landreth-Smith, a guitarist, producer, and educator with over two decades of experience in the music industry. My journey in music began at my earliest days of awareness when my ear caught the melodies of David Rudder and Michael Jackson on the radio. In my early teenage years dancehall, dub, West Coast rap (and Rage Against The Machine) had my attention but at age 16, I was inspired by the raw energy of rock bands like Nirvana and Soundgarden, and that’s when I picked up the guitar. Over the years, I’ve honed my craft, expanded my musical tastes, and had the privilege of working with a diverse array of artists and bands, including Kin Sound System, 3Canal, Luciano, Orange Sky, Buzzrock and many more.
Professional Experience
My professional career took off in 2004, and since then, I’ve made significant contributions to the music industry. I’ve been a key player in numerous ensembles, providing opening support for renowned artists such as Erykah Badu, Steel Pulse, and Chronixx. My versatility extends beyond performance; I’m also a proficient studio musician, sound designer, and recording engineer, most recently for Kes The Band’s “We Home” Album.
In 2016, I co-founded Kin Sound Studios, a full-service audio recording facility in St. Ann’s, Port-of-Spain. Here, I’ve managed and produced a wide range of projects, from live ensemble recordings to sound design for film and theatre. My work at Kin Sound Studios reflects my commitment to excellence and my passion for music production.
Educational Background
My dedication to music is matched by my commitment to education. I graduated with a certificate of excellence from the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) Music Technology Program in 2013, where I was the top-performing student in my cohort. My educational journey has equipped me with the technical expertise to bridge the gap between creative and technical practices, making me a valuable asset in any musical endeavor.
Contributions to Music and Community
My contributions extend beyond the studio and stage. I co-founded the After Jazz Fringe Festival in Tobago, a musician’s community project that ran from 2011 to 2014. This initiative provided a platform for local musicians to collaborate and showcase their talents, fostering a sense of community and support within the local music scene.
Personal Philosophy
For me, music is more than just a profession; it’s a way of life. I believe in continuous learning and celebrate every success and breakthrough along the way. My approach to music is holistic, encompassing performance, production, and education. I’m always eager to take on new challenges, whether it’s filling in for a sick guitarist, recording compositions with live musicians, or introducing others to the world of melody, harmony, and rhythm.
Looking Ahead
I’m committed to a journey of personal musical excellence, always seeking to explore new horizons and share my discoveries with the world. My enthusiasm for music remains as strong as ever, and I look forward to collaborating with new artists and clients, creating memorable musical experiences for all.
Musical Passion
Music is my salvation, I have been a musician for more than half of my life now. I am an eternal student, ebbing and flowing between performing and creating. I love feeling a primal connection with my audience as much as I love being the incidental soundtrack to a beautiful sunset.
Reach Out
Let us share some musical moments together.