Today we’d like to introduce you to Kindred Williams
Hi Kindred, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Honestly, my love for music started with my parents. I grew up singing in every choir I could find. Growing up, our home was always filled with Gospel, Jazz, and R&B from their collection of records, and that’s where I found my passion. It felt natural to be surrounded by music, and I started to recognize how much it was shaping me.
Things really started to click for me as a solo artist while I was at Bowie State University. That’s where I embraced my musical creative side more seriously and started figuring out what kind of artist I wanted to be. Artists like Whitney Houston, Luther Vandross, PJ Morton, Tank, Jazmine Sullivan, John Legend, Ledisi, and Lalah Hathaway really spoke to me, and their influence helped me shape my own vocal style. I’ve always been inspired by people who could tell a story with their voice, and I wanted to do the same.
When I released Testimony earlier this year, it felt like I was letting the world into my personal life, which is nerve-wracking but also liberating. The album is a collection of experiences that shaped who I am. It’s not just songs—it’s me putting my story into words and melodies, hoping it resonates with people on a deeper level.
I’m still learning and evolving as an artist, but I’ve really embraced my own sound—something smooth and soulful. It’s exciting to see where this journey is taking me, and I’m just grateful to be able to share my story through music.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
As an independent artist working with limited funds and resources, it’s been extremely difficult getting my music out there and finding others to collaborate with. Networking is great, but finding people to care about your work as much as you do is difficult.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
When I’m going through my day-to-day as Clark Kent (Preston Kindred-Williams), I’m a husband, a son, a dog dad, and a Program and Grant Manager, helping BIPOC HIV+ SGL men and trans folks access care to achieve viral load suppression.
When I take my glasses off and I’m Superman (Kindred Williams), I become a graphic designer, creative consultant, community advocate, and recording artist.
Over the past year, I’ve become best known for my music after releasing my debut album, Testimony. What sets me apart as a recording artist is my approach to R&B. I grew up listening heavily to smooth jazz and gospel, and that influence unconsciously pours into my music. I also don’t stick to one style or genre. One minute, I’ll have you in a spiritual headspace, and the next, you’ll be throwing it in a circle to a dance track. I don’t like to fit into any box, so you never know what kind of goodness you might get from me.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
When it comes to progressing in any field, especially as a creative, being open and vulnerable to guidance is absolutely essential. It’s important to allow yourself to be led and to seek out advice from those who have walked the path before you. One piece of advice I always give is to never stop learning. We don’t know everything, and even for the things we do know, there are countless ways to approach and accomplish them.
Being teachable is key to growth. You have to be willing to accept that there’s always more to learn, no matter how experienced or talented you are. There will always be someone who can offer a different perspective or approach that can enhance your own work. Stay curious, stay humble, and remain open to evolving in ways you may not have anticipated. The moment you think you’ve learned it all is the moment you stop growing.
In the creative world, the journey is just as important as the destination, and that journey is marked by continuous learning and self-improvement. So embrace every opportunity to expand your knowledge, and never shy away from asking questions or seeking guidance. Your willingness to grow will be one of your greatest strengths.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Kingfinity.org/kindred
- Instagram: @JustKindr3d
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1275652976773901
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@justkindr3d
- Other: https://linktr.ee/justkindr3d
