Kene Clayton: Amplifying Voices Through Hip-Hop and Spoken Word
Hailing from Colwyn Bay, North Wales, Kene Clayton is a dynamic force in the Welsh creative scene—a rapper, poet, spoken word artist, and the Creative Operations Director of the Underground Artist Movement (U.A.M.). With over two decades of experience in writing and performing rap, Kene has dedicated his career to nurturing young talent and fostering inclusive creative spaces.
As the founder of U.A.M., Kene has been instrumental in establishing the Free Under 18 Studio in Colwyn Bay. This initiative offers young people free access to a fully equipped recording studio, mentorship programs, and workshops in music production, lyricism, and digital media. By providing these resources, Kene aims to empower youth to develop their artistic skills and express themselves in a supportive environment.
His performances have graced stages at events such as the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, where he showcased his talents in hip-hop and spoken word, contributing to the festival’s multicultural engagement initiatives.
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Kene has also performed at the Caribbean Carnival in both Liverpool and Manchester as well as Africa Oye, bringing his vibrant energy and lyrical prowess to celebrate cultural diversity. His appearance at the Liverpool Philharmonic highlighted his versatility, blending classical influences with contemporary hip-hop. At Joshua Brooks, a renowned venue in Manchester, Kene captivated audiences with his dynamic performances. Additionally, he has made his mark in underground hip-hop venues across the North, solidifying his reputation as a compelling and authentic voice in the music scene.
Through his work, Kene Clayton continues to inspire and uplift the next generation of artists, using the power of music and storytelling to build resilient individuals and communities.