Full Name: Mackenzie Conaway
Thanks for your time. So, tell us in what part of the First Coast you reside now and how long you have lived there?
I currently live in San Marco! But I grew up off Dunn Avenue! (Everyone knows someone who lives off Dunn Avenue lol)
When did you know you had an interest in music?
I’ve ALWAYS known! I feel like music was embedded in my DNA! When I was younger, I’d make little songs counting numbers, or just melodies! Some of them I still remember, which is hilarious to me!
Did you start with any specific instrument and migrate to other instruments?
I have always played the vocal cords! I taught myself a couple of songs on piano when I was younger! I would try to write little songs here and there! I’m learning some of my originals on electric guitar currently!
Are you currently in a band (or bands)?
I sometimes travel with a corporate band called “The Life Atlantic” and work closely with some friends in a band called “Empty Register”! But outside of that, I am just Kenzie’s Place, and I’m just grateful to know some amazing musicians who back me at shows sometimes!
Who is your favorite musician or what musician influenced you the most?
My favorite artist is Rico Nasty! (Just look her up!) but I feel like the artist that influenced me the most are the Jasmine Sullivan’s, Brandy’s, Whitney and Toni Braxton’s and in then I truly study people like Ariana Grande her pen and her vocal stacking is just out of this world! Or the Queen of switching lanes, Miley Cyrus! I feel like in every phase and ever era or her life and genre she shows up authentically as who she is at that time! And then artist like paramore, meet me @ the alter, Deftones, Pierce the Veil are all some of my favorites also!
Are there any specific memories or highlights of your career that you would like to tell us about?
One My most favorite shows that I played with my friends empty register recently had to have been Jax Punx! My set was completely Punx and I didn’t have to hold back! I felt the crowd’s energy, they felt mine, and we just raged and had an amazing time!
What area bands or musicians are at the top of your list to go out to hear?
I’m always blown away by the Legend Eric Carter and his band!
Do you have a favorite venue that you enjoy playing locally?
I’d have to say The Blue Jay! It’s so intimate! The sound is AMAZING! And I can not rave about their sound engineer Pat, ENOUGH!
Do you have any gigs coming up to tell our readers about?
After Porchfest is Jax Fair! November 15th!
What is the best way for musicians to network?
I love a good, good, good jam session! Unrehearsed, just feeding off of each other! It’s like speaking a hidden language!
Are there any local venue owners/managers that you would like to rave about?
Cara at the Blue Jay! Alex at The Walrus! And collectives like Underwire, Hush Hush Jax, Winterland, and Jax Punx!
If you had a question you would like to ask another musician, what would it be?
How is your mental health!? Following a dream / sometimes chasing it… man … haha that’s it!
Personal hobbies or interests? Family?
I really enjoy working (my work is rewarding and fun), I love puzzles and color, I love to watch dj sets, go to musicals/theater, and enjoy live music!
I have three cats that I absolutely adore! Luna Eclipse, Milo Star, and Charlie Rain!
What do you do for work when you’re not following your dream? (Feel free to word this differently!
When I’m not working toward my dreams, I’m still in my element. I’m a full-time medical esthetician and beauty professional @facesbykenzz and bridal makeup artist and hairstylist, running my own bridal beauty team @facesthehausofbrides! It keeps me creative and connected while I build everything else I’m passionate about! I’d love to serve you!
What’s the best thing for you about living on the First Coast?
I think for me right now, I am finding community! There are so many groups and individuals here that like those things that make you, you!
Where and how can folks learn more about you and/or your band? Links to your website?
Instagram: @kenzieesplace
Kenzie’s Place on all streaming platforms!
Kenziesplace.net
And Kenzie’s place on Facebook!
Is there anything else that you want to tell everyone reading this?
I’d love to see you at PORCHFEST! to unpack all eras of me! For Neo Soul to Alternative Rock and truly invite you into Kenzie’s Place!
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4 Responses
omggggg kenziesplace is the ABSOLUTE BEST !! i’ve been watching her since forever.
Kenzie is by far one of the Absolute Best Talents Jacksonville has to offer💪🏾💯
Kenzie’s Place is an amazing artist and a sweet, sweet soul. Check out her music!
Man I love Kenzies place I met / seen her for the first time at the jaxpunx show and she made everyone get on their feet from her changing music styles to amazing energy on stage she genuinely has it all I’m so proud of her !! Go Kenzies place!!