We recently had the chance to connect with Kevin Cedar and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Kevin, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
We launched a parody fundraiser where we joked that all of our merch sales would be donated to “billionaires in need.” We even made a video for it, and it ended up getting featured in Cleveland Scene. The funniest part? A surprising number of people actually thought we were being serious.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
We’re a Cleveland-based rock band that released our debut album Escape in March 2024. Since then, we’ve headlined more than 10 shows across multiple states, been featured in Cleveland Scene and on BigPlay Sports Network, received airplay on 107.3 ALT CLE over ten times, and built viral traction through our comedic videos and campaigns.
We’re now gearing up to release our second album, Believe, in 2026.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
I had a moment where I realized that being creative isn’t a competition—it’s just self-expression. It’s like being a kid in a sandbox, building a sandcastle. You’re not worried about how it stacks up against others, you’re just enjoying the process of making it. That mindset freed me and gave me the confidence to try things I never thought I could—like starting a rock band.
I don’t have the stereotypical “rock star” image. I don’t have tattoos, I can’t shred scales on guitar, and I didn’t come in with years of experience. But I’ve learned that none of that really matters. What matters is passion for making music and writing songs—and that’s more than enough.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There are plenty of moments where I question how people see me, or whether I’m even on the right path. But the strange thing I’ve noticed is that when you’re truly following your passion, doors have a way of opening unexpectedly. There will always be obstacles, but if your reasons are genuine, it almost feels like the universe finds ways to push you forward.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
I meet a lot of musicians who believe they’re inventing sounds no one has ever heard before—that the more complex the riffs, scales, or gear, the better the music will be. I don’t see it that way. To me, the most authentic and simple compositions are often the ones that travel the furthest. We’re all just borrowing notes, chords, and melodies—rearranging them to tell our own stories.
The biggest lesson I’ve learned in songwriting is to let go of ego and be vulnerable. Write about the things you’re scared to talk about—that’s where the real connection happens.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What will you regret not doing?
My goal is to live a life without regrets. I want to chase every experience I’m drawn to, stand by the people I love, and keep uncovering who I really am through it all. Mistakes are inevitable—but they’re not something to regret.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://HoudinisCode.com
- Instagram: @houdiniscode
- Twitter: @houdiniscode
- Facebook: @houdiniscode
- Youtube: @houdiniscode
