THE EARLY YEARS
Keith was born in Lake Jackson, Texas, and grew up in Augusta, Georgia. Keith was very involved in sports until Christmas 2000, when he received his first guitar from "Santa." Even though his grandmother is an accomplished pianist in Chattanooga, TN, and his dad's cousin, Larry Byrom(www.myspace.com/larrybyrommusic) played lead guitar with rock band Steppenwolf in the 1970's, Keith had shown no interest in music until he picked up his guitar on Christmas morning. He soon started taking guitar lessons, and developed a love for music that amazed his friends and family.
THE ROCK YEARS
While in high school, Keith and a longtime friend started the rock band, Daze of Haze (DOH), which quickly became the most sought-after young band in Augusta, Georgia. The band played live events on television and radio in addition to venues throughout the southeast. They released their first CD ("Where the Street Lights End") in late 2003, and immediately received play time on radio station 95Rock in Augusta. In addition to playing lead guitar, Keith wrote the music and/or lyrics to many of the band's songs. Although Keith played rock with DOH, he began experimenting wth other styles including blues, jazz, fusion, and classical ballads.
In their heyday, some of the more memorable events for Daze of Haze were opening for 3 Days Grace and playing in Las Vegas.
THE MOVE TO LOS ANGELES
Keith and one more original member of DOH moved out to LA to follow their dream. The other two members had their own dreams to follow, so there was a new DOH created. Unfortunately due to creative differences, the new DOH never quite got off the ground. In the meantime, Keith was developing a love for jazz and found legendary jazz guitarist John Pisano (www.johnpisano.com). Keith began studying under John in the Spring of 2007. Keith is currently studying composition under Carlos Rafael Rivera (www.riveramusic.net) at The Pasadena Conservatory of Music and will begin working on his Bachelors degree in Music in the Fall of 2008. Keith is selectively available for private guitar lessons in Burbank, CA.
Major Influences: DJANGO REINHARDT, MOZART,
CHARLIE PARKER, JOE PASS
KEITH'S EQUIPMENT -
Guitars: Ibanez Artcore (Semi-Hollow Body), Ibanez Acoustic/Electric
Amps: Mesa Boogie Lone Star Classic Combo, Pandora's Box
Strings:
Picks: Wegen picks (european made for gypsy style)