There is a certain type of artist that transcends generational and artistic boundaries, that channels their experiences while simultaneously fostering an environment for others to thrive. Kai Alcé is a prime example. Born in New York, some of his earliest musical influences included his mother’s penchant for soca music and the distinct Caribbean rhythms of his culture. An appreciation of Jazz would be further guided by his father’s expanding audiophile home system. Moving to Detroit in 1980, the start of the decade where Techno would take formation, put him at the center of music history as the Belleville Three and their contemporaries molded house into the new sound, while simultaneously working at the now famed nightclub “The Music Institute”
Relocating to Atlanta, GA for school he took it upon himself to bring more of the authentic House and Techno flavor to his new home, playing at numerous clubs and bars in the metro area. Eventually this led to DEEP, his aptly-named, game changing decade long Saturday night residency at local club MJQ, where would bring guests such as King Britt, Steve “Silk” Hurley, Peven Everett, Kerri Chandler, Phil Asher and Joe Claussell.
It is during the 2000s that Kai really sets his stride. 2002 saw the release of his first production, ‘The Kaizer EP’, on Brett Dancer’s seminal deep house label Track Mode. After a few releases on other labels such as Moodymann’s Mahogani Music, Deep Explorer & Real Soon. A few years later he would co-found the Labor Day weekend outdoor event House In The Park with DJ Ramon Rawsoul which now has over 15,000 attendees with many traveling from around the world to partake in the revelries.
2008 would prove to be the defining year of Kai’s decade as it saw the creation of his label NDATL and the first edition of his annual Deep Detroit. NDATL stands for the cities that Kai has called home and have played a role in his musical development: New York, Detroit, ATLanta. Which is home to many of his own productions and A List producers such as Larry Heard, Mr. G, Theo Parrish & Mike Huckaby to name a few.
Never one to stay static he has recently curated the boutique Kai Alcé Eyewear line. “The Kaizer” never stops moving. A love of life, mixed with his flair for originality, willingness to experiment and devotion to the dancefloor has cemented his place as a pillar in American dance music history. Whatever comes next from Mr. Alcé, you can be assured that it will be classy, soulful, fulfilling and funky. Stay tuned because you never know what the man will have for you next!
