K-os

Kevin Brereton, born on February 20, 1972, is better known by his stage name k-os, which is pronounced as 'chaos'. This Canadian artist has made a significant mark in the music industry as an alternative rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer. The name k-os, intentionally styled with a lowercase 'k', was chosen to convey a less aggressive persona compared to other rappers of his time. It stands for 'Knowledge of Self', although k-os has also mentioned that it originally represented 'Kevin's Original Sound'.

k-os is celebrated for his eclectic musical style, blending genres such as rap, funk, rock, and reggae. His lyrics often promote positive messages while critiquing the mainstream hip hop culture's fixation on wealth, fame, and violence. As a multi-talented musician, k-os has been involved in writing and producing nearly every aspect of his albums, showcasing his versatility and creativity.

His journey in music began with the release of his single 'Musical Essence' in 1995, followed by 'Rise Like the Sun' in 1996. After a brief hiatus due to dissatisfaction with his musical direction, k-os made a comeback in 1999 and released his debut album, 'Exit', in 2002. Although it received favorable reviews, it did not achieve significant commercial success. However, his subsequent albums, 'Joyful Rebellion' in 2004 and 'Atlantis: Hymns for Disco' in 2006, both achieved platinum status in Canada, solidifying his place in the industry.

Continuing his momentum, k-os released 'Yes!' in 2009, followed by 'Black on Blonde' in 2013 and 'Can't Fly Without Gravity' in 2015. Over the years, he has established himself as one of the top-selling Canadian hip hop artists, ranking third from 1996 to 2016, behind only Drake and Swollen Members. k-os's unique approach to hip hop, often performing with a live band and incorporating instruments like the guitar and keyboard, sets him apart in a genre that typically relies on pre-recorded tracks.