Music becomes a release
Keegan Lewis is singing Creep by Radiohead.
‘‘I want to have control,’’ he croons. ‘‘I want a perfect body. I want a perfect soul.’’
Keegan, 20, has cerebral palsy and autism. He’s also a musician with his debut album set for release next month.
Called My Own Voice, and recorded in his parents’ living room in Whangaparaoa, Auckland, the album is the product of three years’ work with guitarist Arli Liberman.
As well as singing on the album’s six tracks, Keegan wrote the lyrics, which offer a unique perspective on living with a disability.
Using his voice is the one thing Keegan can do independently.
‘‘That’s how this album came to be,’’ he says. ‘‘It gives me a feeling of freedom and independence, I guess.’’
Keegan has been singing since he was eight. His mum, Franky, says it’s where he goes when everything gets too much.
‘‘When he sings he goes into a different place,’’ she says.
Keegan loves performing, and doesn’t get nervous. ‘‘Once I get on stage I have a ball,’’ he says.
When he sings Creep in the Lewis’ living room, a serene smile comes over his face. He seems calm.
‘‘You’re so very special,’’ he sings. ‘‘I wish I was special.’’
Like any new artist, Keegan is hoping the album sells. ‘‘If I have people buy the album I’ll be able to make the next one.’’
He has big ambitions: an album of covers followed by a selection of originals. He has plenty of material that didn’t make it onto My Own Voice.
He also hopes to speak to others living with disabilities. He wants to help them find their own voices.