About – Kevin Mahogany

Kevin Bryant Mahogany, who passed away at the premature age of 59 on December 17, 2017, was a legend in the world of jazz music and a person greatly admired by millions of his fans.

He was born on July 30, 1958 in Kansas City to James and Carrie Lee Mahogany. Kansas City remained the ultimate home town for Mahogany till the end of his life.

He had been living in Miami till the death of his wife in August 2017. After this, he moved back to Kansas City where he passed away. His close relatives have confirmed that the death of his wife was a big shock to Mahogany and may have played a part in aggravating his health concerns.

He had been married to his wife for 25 years and is said to have been very close to her. His final return to Kansas showed the place this city held in his heart.

Mahogany’s Entry Into Music

Like many famous musicians, Mahogany got an early start in the music world. As early as when he was in the third grade, he started playing the piano, then moved to clarinet before shifting to baritone saxophone.

The last instrument brought him success and he became part of a well-known band at the age of just 12.

But Mahogany was destined to play a different role. When he heard Al Jarreau’s song ‘Look to the Rainbow,’ he decided to become a vocalist. Being in Kansas, he had the advantage of tapping into the great tradition of male jazz singers of the city.

His inspirations form the world of jazz music included big names like Eddie Jefferson, Johnny Hartman and Jon Hendricks. The jazz music of 1960s and 1970s was something he understood and took forward but with his own unique stamp on the performances.

Blessed with a heavy but delightfully sonorous voice, Mahogany combined elements of blues, r&b and rock into his singing. He was also a master of scat singing which made him an even more unique performer.

Success As A Singer

As a lead singer, his first album came out in 1993 titled ‘Double Rainbow’ (Enja Records). His multiple talents were already visible in this album. Soon, he was able to make a name in the world of jazz music.

He recorded four albums with Enja records while three albums with Warner Brothers were part of his discography. In 2000, Warner Brothers released an album titles ‘Portrait of Kevin Mahogany’ which contained some of his best songs.

Mahogany briefly entered the world of business as well by launching his own recording label. He released an album with this company also. Overall, Mahogany recorded 10 albums with different companies in which he was the lead singer.