Khemist

“How you like me now? I go blaow… makin every ghetto foul. I might have took your first child, scarred your life, crippled your style. I gave you power. I made you buck wild.” (Nas, 1996) When Nas released It Was Written in 1996, he was unaware that eight years later, 12 year old Terence Oliver would take one listen to “I Gave You Power” and it would change his life forever. It was Nas’ first person narrative from the perspective of a gun that inspired Terence, who we know as Khemist, to begin writing poetry.
Growing up in the heart of North Philadelphia, Khemist was not oblivious to the poverty, crime, and misfortune around him. Unlike many of his peers, he steered clear of the streets and used writing as his escape from the madness.
Following in the rich tradition of Philadelphia natives such as Kenny Gamble, Fresh Prince, Jill Scott and Black Thought; Khemist began writing music at the age of 14. Citing Lauryn Hill and Nas as his major musical influences, Khemist aims to become one of the most influential writers of his generation. In 2008, Khemist released his first mixtape, Weirdo Language, which became a favorite amongst his fellow students at The Academy at Palumbo. The following spring, Khemist was hired to perform at Palumbo’s 2009 junior prom. Coming off the high of performing in front of his classmates, Khemist went on to perform at Temple University, St. Joseph’s University, and Howard University’s 2009 Homecoming Yardfest with artists such as Fabolous, The Clipse and Big Sean. In 2010, Khemist won the Hampton Idol competition and had the opportunity to perform for Hampton University’s Homecoming fesitivities. In March of 2010, Khemist was honored for his dedication to his education, his community, and his artistry as a writer and emcee by The Jr. Music Executive Program. Khemist received the Diamond in the Rough award from the organization, of which he has been an active member since 2008. One of the biggest performances of Khemist’s young career came in April 2010, when he performed at 100.3 The Beat’s Philly Home Jamz concert. Khemist’s performance was cited as one of the best of the night by some of the most respected figures on the Philadelphia music scene. Other performers included Freeway, Gillie Da Kid, Meek Millz. Khemist was recently featured with Tyler James on NBC 10’s The 10! June of 2010, Khemist released his second mixtape Exotic Prodigy Pluto Distributors (EPPD), hosted by the world’s number one blind DJ, DJ Touch Tone, which served as a proper introduction to the thoughts of Khemist.
Currently a student at Hampton University, Khemist has built a dedicated audience in Virginia in addition to Philadelphia. He just wrapped the recording of his debut album Puzzle Pieces, coming out August 30, 2011 with super-producer Dilemma of Hello World Music at the Legendary Sigma Sound Studios.
Khemist has embarked on a summer promo run, performing in the Philadelphia area and beyond. He has opened for Kindred at Summerfest, Jaguar Wright at World Café Live and recently recorded for the NBC 10! Show as well as NBC6 Live Miami. With soul music patterning the beat of his heart, hip-hop guiding his hand and Philadelphia on his mind; 19-year old Khemist is a writer, an artist, and a voice that will be heard. www.localkhemistry.com