Some of today's most accomplished musicians and producers come together as FATHERS, a new collaborative project built around four artists whose resumes span jazz, hip-hop, rock, R&B and electronic music. Rather than serving as a showcase for any one member, FATHERS thrives on the chemistry created when four distinct musical voices meet on equal footing.

At the center is producer Kenneth Blume, better known as Kenny Beats. As creative director, he's helped shape the sound of artists including Vince Staples, Denzel Curry, Rico Nasty, IDLES, Freddie Gibbs, Geese and Weezer, while also becoming a familiar online personality through his Twitch and YouTube collaborations with artists such as Doja Cat, Thundercat and Skrillex.

Keyboardist Kiefer Shackelford, who records as Kiefer, brings a style that naturally bridges jazz, hip-hop and electronic music. Beyond his acclaimed solo work, he's collaborated with Terrace Martin and Anderson .Paak, co-producing two tracks on the Grammy-winning Ventura, including the standout single "King James."

Bassist and multi-instrumentalist Ben Carr, better known as CARRTOONS, has built a reputation as both an inventive solo artist and an in-demand collaborator. Along with his own releases, including Space Cadet, he's worked with an impressive range of artists including George Clinton, Freddie Gibbs, Jadakiss, Usher and Roy Ayers, while expanding his audience through inventive social media content and multiple Tiny Desk appearances.

Completing the lineup is drummer Nate Smith, widely regarded as one of the most influential percussionists working today. His credits include Michael Jackson, Brittany Howard, Jon Batiste, Pat Metheny, Dave Holland, Childish Gambino and Vulfpeck, and in 2026 he earned two Grammy Awards for LIVE-ACTION, a collaborative project that highlighted both his musical vision and remarkable range.

On their debut album, FATHERS, the quartet draws on the collective experience of four musicians whose careers have consistently crossed stylistic boundaries. The result reflects the modern music landscape, where jazz, hip-hop, soul and experimental sounds coexist naturally, creating something fresh while keeping the focus squarely on musicianship.