Kevin Kavanaugh

Kevin Kavanaugh is an instrumental artist that lives in the Phoenix metropolitan area. He resides in a small community in the San Tan Mountains with his wife and children.

Kevin began his musical career in the early 80's. After moving to Europe he had the opportunity to play with some of the premier hard rock and heavy metal bands of the time. Being a  "gun-for-hire" by trade led him to playing everywhere from Belfast, Northern Ireland to Shonen Japan.

In the early 90's the commercial music climate changed and "guitar-heroes" were out of fashion. Kevin packed up his family and moved to New York City. He cut his hair and entered the corporate world.

While in New York, Kevin immersed himself in the exploding blues scene. Getting back to his roots and getting in touch with his heritage. The biggest change in his playing came from the styles of local New York artists. Now known for his "over-the-top" bends and "weird improv stuff" you can still smell the subway when he opens his guitar case...

Corporate life moved Kevin to Phoenix next. Although Phoenix had a huge blues movement, it was very insular. Kevin spent 10 years just sitting in whenever he could get a chance.

After wandering the club scene for awhile, Kevin realized the real action was in the hard rock and hardcore metal scene.

It was like a shark smelling blood in the water...

Armed with a long-hair history and a trick-bag full of blues chops, it was time to make some noise. Not just any noise. Real sonic mayhem.

And so the new chapter began.

The "new stuff" started with the recording of Bottle Rocket and continues with more and more converts to "The Kult Of The 6 String" each and every day. They hear it in LA, they hear it in New York, they even hear it in Moscow

Kevin intends to start a revolution or "fly this puppy straight into the ground".. 

Either way it should be a good ride.

~

In addition to performing live and recording Kevin also teaches the Sonic Mayhem series of guitar clinics at music stores and industry events. Kevin also teaches classes on recording basics at local high schools. 

• Hometown: Barboursville,WV
• Currently resides: Phoenix,AZ
• Nickname: The Gila Monster 
• Band: Patient Zero
• Favorite food: Corndogs or anything with chipotle (mostly because that's what's always back in catering ~Kevin)
• Most admired musician: Frank Zappa
• Biggest influence: Pat Travers or Gary Moore
• Number of guitars: Varies from 6 to around 30
• Favorite place to play: Any little town in Germany
• Other interests: Teaches the Sonic Mayhem series of guitar clinics and works with charities like Little Kids Rock and Music For All.