Kenna Zemedkun, known professionally as Kenna, is an Ethiopian-born American musician and philanthropist whose innovative contributions to the music industry have garnered him critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. He burst onto the scene with his debut single “Hell Bent” in 2001, which laid the groundwork for his first album, “New Sacred Cow,” released in 2003. This album, co-produced by Chad Hugo of The Neptunes, showcased a unique blend of electronica and synthpop, earning Kenna a nomination for Best Urban/Alternative Performance at the 2009 Grammy Awards for his track “Say Goodbye to Love.”

In 2007, Kenna released his second album, “Make Sure They See My Face,” which was inspired by his attempt to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. The album debuted at #1 on the Billboard Top 20 Heatseekers Chart, highlighting his ability to connect deeply with audiences through his music. His creative vision continued to evolve with the “Land 2 Air Chronicles” series, where he released three EPs that further solidified his status as a forward-thinking artist in the industry.

Beyond music, Kenna has made significant strides in philanthropy and technology. He founded the Summit on the Summit initiative, which raises awareness for the global water crisis, and successfully climbed Mount Kilimanjaro with a group of celebrities to promote this cause. His efforts culminated in a documentary aired on MTV, showcasing his commitment to social issues.

Kenna’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to become the Chief Vision Officer at Myspace, where he collaborated with Justin Timberlake to reimagine the platform. His strategic development company, Translator, has facilitated numerous successful projects, including a high-profile concert at the South by Southwest Festival. Through his multifaceted career, Kenna continues to inspire and innovate, making a lasting impact in both the music and philanthropic realms.