Article Summary: Artist on the rise Kevin Smart is celebrated in a Runway Magazine feature exploring the extraordinary creative vision of one of the art world's most exciting new voices.
Drummer Kevin Smart has accomplished more than most his age, having already shared the stage with some of the biggest names in music including Miley Cyrus, Ariana Grande, Austin Mahone, TimeFlies Jason Derulo, and Fall Out Boy, to name a few. Most recently, Kevin got off his second national tour with Warner Bros Recording Artist, Jake Miller, and did we mention, he’s still in High School?
We sat down with the multitalented artist to discuss his big break, balancing work and school, and his must-have threads.
You have quite the impressive resume for an 18 year old. What was your first big break, and how did it come about?
Thank you! My first big gig was with working with Jake Miller in April of 2013. My very good friend, Scott Nebb, was and still is his tour manager. I told Scott that I would love to play drums for Jake. He suggested I put up a drum cover. I did and Jake saw it immediately and liked it. I got a text a few months later asking to go on tour with him. Pretty surprising and nerve racking since I was in the middle of my junior year. I had to think how I was going to balance school and tour. Thankfully, my high school worked with me to make it happen.
Who has been your favorite artist to work with? And who would you like to work with in the future?
So far, I have been using most of my time working with Jake Miller while still working on getting my school work completed. It is a really great experience working with Jake. He is very talented and is one of the most genuine people I have came across. I think it would be really cool to work with Justin Timberlake. I really enjoy his music and the way he presents himself.
When you’re not touring, you are finishing high school. Is that hard balancing the two?
At times, it can be difficult. Going on tour is one of the greatest experiences. You are always traveling in different places and meeting new people. I always have the temptation to go out and take it all in, in each city. Sometimes, I have to skip that little experience and stay on the bus and complete my work so I can get my work submitted on time.
Since this is a fashion magazine, let’s talk fashion. How would you describe your own personal style? What are some of your go-to brands?
Lately, I have really been on a Macy’s binge. I would describe my “style” as a preppy/rugged look. I really love my Polo shirts and Sperry’s. But I also love wearing Supras, Skinny Levis, and a hoodie. Depends on the occasion!
As a musician, you have to be constantly moving on stage. Does that ever dictate what you wear when performing?
Of course! I love to be comfortable on stage! A v-neck, jeans, and Supras are usually my go-to clothes for going on stage!
Summer is right around the corner. Do you have any favorite summer must-haves in your closet?
Definitely. Tons of tank tops, more pairs of sperry’s, and some of the new shorts from Bananna Republic!
Don’t forget to catch Kevin on Twitter @ PopPunkPro
