Kes (band)

Kes (commonly known as Kes the Band or KTB) is a Trinidadian soca group formed in 2005, and known for their unique blend of soulful vocals, calypso inspired melodies, rock riffs and island beats, with hints of reggae. The band hails from the twin island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and consists of founding members, brothers Kees Dieffenthaller (lead vocals), Hans Dieffenthaller (drums), and Jon Dieffenthaller (guitar), along with long-time friend Riad Boochoon (bass guitar). Kes’ style has elevated them to mainstream popularity, allowing Kes to become a household name in their country and throughout the Caribbean circuit. The band constantly captivates and wins over their audiences, with their electric and high-energy performances.

Kees Dieffenthaller has collaborated with major industry talents such as songwriter Desmond Child. Kees and Child joined forces to produce a song for the album of Ace Young who appeared on the fifth season of ''American Idol''. In 2011, the title song from their fourth album ''Wotless'', was one of the most popular songs for Trinidad and Tobago's Carnival. "Wotless" was created through a collaboration between Kes and Trinidadian born singer/songwriter/producer Kerwin Dubois. Kees was crowned King of International Soca Monarch at the International Soca Monarch competition that year. "Wotless" was also nominated for a BET Soul Train Music Awards in the same year, for the category of best Caribbean Performance. Kes released their fifth album, ''Stereotype'', in August 2011, which included the track "Loving You", a collaboration between Kes and Jamaican songstress Tessanne Chin, winner of Season 5, ''The Voice''.

In 2012, Kes teamed up with Snoop Dogg on a remix of their carnival release "Stress Away". The single was well received and marked new territory for the band.

In 2014, Kes hosted their first annual concert which bears the namesake of their track "Tuesday on the Rocks". The concert is held annually on the Tuesday before Trinidad and Tobago Carnival and features a cast of popular international, regional and local artists.

The band has performed and sold out some prestigious venues in New York City such BB Kings (2013) and the PlayStation Theater (formerly known as the Best Buy Theater) in Times Square (2012). Kes has released six albums to date, ''Three Baldheads and a Dread'', ''Lion'', ''On in 5'', ''Wotless'', ''Stereotype'' and ''Wired''. On 9 June 2016, Kes released their international single "Major" from their upcoming album ''Windows to the World''.

History

Hans, the oldest of the three Dieffenthaller brothers, discovered his talent for playing the drums at the age of 10. He and his younger brother Jon were asked by a childhood friend to form a band. Jon joined the band as a bass player at the age of seven where he found his love for music. Although these youngsters had musicians for their garage band, they needed a lead singer. At the age of five, Kes had been a member of numerous choirs, theatre productions, and other musical projects he became the lead singer of his brother's band at the age of six. Performances were usually held on a stage that was built in the backyard of the Dieffenthaller home. These talented brothers eventually outgrew their first band, however, their musical abilities would continue to grow.

Kees's parents encouraged him to explore and develop his craft and at the age of 13, he formed an R&B group called KLAS, and the group performed material that was composed by Kes.

Hans, Jon and Kees Dieffenthaller attended Presentation College, San Fernando where they met Riad Boochoon. Riad, who as a classically trained pianist shared a mutual interest in music, which sealed the relationship with the Dieffenthaller brothers. Hans, Jon, Kees and Riad continued their passion for music and their love of performing by becoming involved with several musical ventures which included the Anchorage Pop/Rock award-winning band, Limestone, and the dynamic, fusion band Rydimorai.

Music

2006–2007

In 2006, Kes launched their debut album titled ''Three Baldheads and a Dread'' (a reference to the hairstyles of the band members). This album featured tracks such as "Stay with Me" and "Heads High". "Stay with Me" retained the number one position on the Toronto website charts for nine straight weeks, a new record for the band. The track, "The Calling" was featured on the soundtrack for the EA Sports ''FIFA 2006 Edition''.

2007–2008

Kes released their second album, ''Lion'', in 2007. The title song was popular among fans due to its inspiring and motivational lyrics. "My Land" a collaboration with Nadia Batson was a hit during the carnival season that year. "My Land" placed Kes and Nadia second in the Trinidad and Tobago International Soca Monarch Competition. Kes released other tracks such as "Our Prayer", and reggae influenced songs "Limin" and "Bigger Brighter Day" from this album which received heavy rotation on local radio stations. Later in 2007, Kes released tracks that were more diverse, such as "Come a Little Closer" which also dominated local radio stations. In 2008, Kes’ carnival releases included "Right Dey" and "De Remedy". Kes also released their music video for the single "Lion" in May. Kees joined forces with major industry songwriter Desmond Child. Kees and Desmond produced a song for the new Ace Young album. Ace Young appeared on the fifth season of ''American Idol''.

2009–2010

The band's third album, ''On In 5'', was released on 10 February 2009. ''On In 5'' featured a mix of new and old releases as well as live performances. In 2010, the band's song "Let Me Know" was selected by Six Flags and was played throughout their amusement parks. "Let Me Know" was also chosen by American Airlines and was played during their programmes. In this year, Kes performed live on BBC
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