KENTON Pours Raw Emotions and Strong Storytelling in His Debut Album, “Sweethmouth”

The rising star KENTON has released his debut album, “Sweethmouth.” KENTON is a Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter and actor known for his versatility and emotional depth. He is the son of Taiwanese immigrants and grew up in Irvine, California, where he struggled to navigate his Asian American and queer identity. He gained national attention as part of The Sing Off’s “The Backbeats” and went on to collaborate with artists like Katy Perry, Benson Boone, and Postmodern Jukebox. His dual experience as an artist and actor gives his music cinematic texture—intimate yet expressive. 

KENTON

KENTON’s album is a reclamation of his voice, identity, and forgiveness through thoughtful storytelling and a personal touch.

“Sweethmouth” is his first album that channels formative experiences into an unflinching exploration of identity, faith, and family through the lens of pop. It’s a 15-track conceptual record rooted in KENTON’s 2022 trip back to his hometown in Taiwan, where he united with his family after six years apart. The opening track, “I’m Breaking My Father’s Heart,” is a heart-wrenching ballad of reconciliation, balancing soft piano and emotive vocals, perfectly narrating the story. “Vaporize Me” transforms a traditional Hakka folk melody into a shimmering electronic track about disappearing and rebirth. “Wannabe American” stands out for its sharp lyrical wit and commentary on assimilation, wrapped in upbeat pop production. 

“Gift of Loneliness” dives into isolation and emotional self-preservation, carried by dark, 80’s-inspired synths. " 3 AM in Taipei” explores Taipei’s nightlife with rhythm-driven beats, and “Dirty Laundry” talks about familial shame. Ballads like “Let Light In” and “Without You” offer emotional reprieve, showcasing KENTON’s vulnerability and vocal range. Musically, the album blends synth-pop, R&B, and atmospheric balladry, with lush production by Eric Cannata (Young the Giant) and mixing by Neal Avron (Fall Out Boy, Walk the Moon). It’s a collection of songs that will connect you to true emotions. 

Test the melodies down here:

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