Local Artist Blues
Contributed by Keith Jenkins
Penny Taylor, a distinctive artist hailing from the rugged landscapes of Alaska, has made a mark on the music scene despite choosing an unconventional path. Known for his dynamic range in Hip Hop, R&B, and Pop, Taylor has captivated listeners with his hit single, "Cuff," which has enjoyed impressive airplay from Seattle to Jacksonville, Florida. His song has even topped the urban jams chart in Chicago, showcasing his wide-reaching appeal and talent.
Taylor’s refusal to sign with major record labels is a testament to his commitment to his Alaskan roots and artistic integrity. Inspired by music legends like Michael Jackson, Prince, and James Brown, Taylor incorporates a rich blend of influences including Bryson Tiller, The Weekend, and Jazmine Sullivan into his work. This eclectic mix has resonated strongly with audiences and critics alike, as evidenced by his numerous features in articles, blogs, and podcasts.
A notable highlight in his career was the feature of one of his songs and videos on a major television network, further solidifying his status in the industry. Despite these achievements and a growing fanbase, Taylor faces an unexpected challenge: his music is notably absent from local Alaskan radio stations, and he has yet to receive coverage in his hometown paper.
This disconnect between Taylor’s rising success and his local recognition raises intriguing questions about the dynamics of the music industry and regional support for artists. While he enjoys national acclaim, the lack of local acknowledgment highlights a broader issue that many artists face when their work transcends regional boundaries.
Penny Taylor’s story is a compelling narrative of dedication and resilience. His choice to remain in Alaska, away from the traditional music industry hubs, underscores a profound commitment to authenticity and personal values. As he continues to make waves in the music world, it will be fascinating to see if his local community eventually embraces him, recognizing the talent and perseverance that have driven his success on a grand scale.
Penny’s goal is to become the first mainstream artist to emerge from Anchorage Alaska. Doing this will shed light on the immense talent pool of artists of various forms that are here and create more opportunities. The music ecosystem generates and contributes 2.2M to the Anchorage economy. If we nurture the arts, imagine the possibilities. The lack of support is one reason that one in three young people are choosing to leave home. This is a major issue.
Penny Taylor will have his first major concert at home on Oct 19th at the Matanuska Brewing Company in Midtown Anchorage. This is our time to show up and prove to our young people that we support them, not just the artists who are paid handsomely to come here.