Signkid – Arts, Culture and Film

Deaf rapper Signkid is on a mission to make music more accessible for deaf and hard of hearing people.

The 31-year-old artist – real name Kevin Walker – has created ‘signsong’, a visual-based language which integrates British Sign Language and UK Sign Slang to allow deaf music fans to access the lyrics of their favourite songs.

“I don’t hear everything completely but I feel the vibrations,” explains Signkid. “I read the lyrics and match them to the beat.

“Hearing artists often look at people like me and think that we can’t do music, but I want to see the number of deaf UK artists growing. I’m really proud of what I’ve achieved so far but it’s just the beginning.”

Signkid, from London, has been deaf since the age of three, after contracting meningitis. But he hasn’t let it hold him back – writing, producing and recording music and performing at major festivals alongside hearing artists.

He also recently starred as himself in a musical short film called Silent World, made with the help of funding from The National Lottery. The film won Signkid the Arts, Culture and Film category in this year’s National Lottery Awards.

“I’m privileged that my work is being recognised,” he says. “Growing up deaf, I didn’t think

I’d ever win something like this. But winning the award has given me a boost. I’d also like to win a Brit Award or a Grammy – that’s my ultimate goal.”