Karen Lucas

Nairobi, Kenya

Profile Campaigns

Life is a long musical

<div>Karen Lucas is known to millions of television viewers across Africa as Kaz from the hit TV reality show 'Project Fame', where she was infamous for her quirky and sometimes controversial antics.  Her vivacious nature, charismatic stage presence, and mesmerizing soulful vocals continuously impressed the panel of judges, and she was one of the last contestants to be voted off.   Background: Kaz's interest in music and theatre began at an early age.  She attended primary school at St. Andrews Turi, a British curriculum school in Kenya, where she actively participated in musical productions as well as the school choir. Kaz also took a keen interest in learning various musical instruments including the piano, African drums and flute. Her passion for the piano in particular and long hours of practice paid off when Kaz was awarded a certificate signed by the Queen of England for graduating at the top of her class!! She later joined Braeside high school and in spite of her family's financial difficulties she continued in her path to success in the music field. Driven by her determination and guided by her innate talent, Kaz was promoted to musical director of the high school choir and won the award for best musician /actress. Breaking into the Industry: At 14, Kaz amazed thousands during her first public appearance at the Nairobi Carnivore grounds, alongside Grammy award -winning rapper Coolio, where she took the title for best overall rapper at an impromptu rapping competition held during his concert in Kenya. This opened doors for Kaz in the music industry, and determined and encouraged, she  recorded her first single 'K-A-Z' with the legendary Kenyan producer Tedd Josiah .Her song slowly moved its way up the East African charts landing in the top 10. Not bad for a first attempt!! Kaz’s talent led to recognition from Kenya’s acclaimed artists, culminating in an invitation extended to her to perform at her first professional concert 'Love Jams'.  Love Jams was one of Kenya's first street concerts where musicians performed live music, and featured industry notables such as Ian Mbugua, Mercy Myra, and Zanaziki.  At 16, Kaz was the youngest artist at the time to be invited to perform at the concert! Post High School: By the time Kaz completed high school, she had graced numerous stages, performing at popular venues including The Carnivore, The barn and Kenya’s famous Safari Park Hotel.  At 19, Kaz joined a band and continued to catch the attention of many of the industry’s movers and shakers.  She was soon offered a gig to host the wildly popular karaoke night at Nairobi's Hotel Intercontinental. Kaz continued to pursue her other love, theatre.  Spurred on by the overwhelmingly positive audience response from both her singing and acting, Kaz auditioned for the then unknown reality TV show 'Project Fame'. Her first album! After her successful run on Project Fame, Kaz went back to work and begun to do more shows.  She featured in local TV productions, including MNET's sponsored project 'RASTAR' where she played herself.  In 2006 Kaz’s hard work, paid off when she launched her debut album "Somin, the one we were looking for" at a Nairobi restaurant.  The launch was attended by hundreds and the album was well received.  It was not long (within a month!!) before her debut album was sold out. Later she hosted  the TV show, 'AFFRODIZZIA' on Citizen Television, which showcases music from across the continent, educating viewers on each country's musical history and culture. She is now currently working on her second album 'The naked truth is...'   Awards: Over the years and as a result of her hard work and great talent, Kaz has been recognized by her peers for her artistry.  In 2005, she won the East African Kisima award for Best Afro Fusion Artist of the Year, and in 2006, she was honored to receive the African Kora award for Most Promising Female Artist in Africa. She was also recently nominated for best actress in the 'Kalasha awards'. Kenya's first film award ceremony, for a short movie she starred in which was released late last year.  Touring: Kaz has traveled to many countries where she has had the opportunity to perform and continue to build her fan base.  She has been to several African countries including Zambia, Nigeria, and Ghana.  Kaz was also on a 5 week tour in the UK performing at her own and other concerts. Currently she is in the US working on her sophomore album.  Community Service: Kaz is actively involved in giving back to society.  She has organized and participated in shows to raise money for the Nairobi Womens Hospital and Kenya Breast Health Programme, of which she is volunteer advocating breast cancer awareness. Her benevolence continues in all her endeavors including working with USAID during the Umoja Pamoja campaign, and promoting peaceful and non violent voting. Currently she's partnered with Events: Kaz set up her events company Krimson concepts in 2006 and first created an event called 'Urban nights' which incorporated urban soul music and poetry. Being fully involved in the arts she got a chance o hold an event for Oxfam, bringing popular UK DJ, DJ shadow to show case his universal mix of music and have him enjoy the array of Kenya's best live music. Today she uses Krimson concepts as KazMuzik to promote a monthly event she conceptualized called 'An artist,A singer, A poet...'  A.S.A.P. This having grown to be a successful night of visual arts, music and poetry, has led to yet another event set up by KazMuzik in conjunction with the Karen Country Lodge in Nairobi. 'Something's on' was launched on Sunday the 25th July 2010 and is a themed fair allowing sales people from different business backgrounds to come together to promote either their goods and/or services.KazMuzik will continue to support the arts and help the Kenyan communities grow through educating the youth in arts and culture.<div> </div></div>

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