1. Keshawna, for those who don’t know you yet, can you tell us who KANXEL is and what inspired your journey into the electronic music scene?

It really started with my boyfriend at the time before he passed. His friend took us to a bass night at Gilt, back when it was still around. That night didn’t vibe with me, so l almost wrote it off.

But then I went to see k?d, and everything shifted. That experience lit something in me. I started digging into the scene, scrolling for shows, learning the culture. That’s when I found Forbidden Kingdom. The second I stepped on those fairgrounds, I knew I wasn’t just here to rave. I was here to build. That’s when Kanxel was born.

2. Being a black woman in EDM is rare but powerful. What does that representation mean to you personally?

At the end of the day, we’re all just people who love music no matter the color of our skin. Whether you’re purple, pink, yellow, whatever EDM brings us together. And that unity shouldn’t be lost in the industry either.

That said, navigating this scene as a woman especially a woman of color comes with its challenges. There are definitely people out there who think we don’t belong, but the truth is, we work twice as hard just to be seen. It’s easy to be targeted or underestimated, but l’ve learned to keep my head down, stay focused, and let the work speak.

I’ve put in sweat, tears, and relentless effort into everything I do. Yeah, I get overlooked sometimes but that’s never stopped me. Everyone’s got opinions, and this country was built on a system that’s tried to box people in based on gender or race. You’ve gotta learn how to move through that, stay grounded, and carve out your own lane on your own terms.

3. You’re also a promoter and talent buyer for Mob Zero. How did you get involved with them, and what’s the company’s mission in your eyes?

I created Mob Zero to give real, raw talent a platform because let’s be honest, not everyone out here gets a fair shot. A lot of upcoming artists get overlooked simply because no one’s taking the time to seek them out or believe in them. I wanted to break down that barrier and create a space where hard work and passion actually get recognized.

The mission behind Mob Zero goes deeper than just music. It’s about building a community rooted in love, peace, and real understanding. We all go through things emotionally, and if I can create a space where people can find connection, release their energy on the dance floor, and walk away feeling seen that’s when I know the mission is alive and moving.

We also want to give back however we can. You never know what someone’s going through, so Mob Zero is about holding space where you can show up as your full self, no masks, no pressure. Just freedom, expression, and unity through sound.

Mob Zero may not be the biggest name yet, but the impact is undeniable. What’s been one of your proudest moments or shows you’ve helped put together so far?

One of my proudest moments has been seeing people truly get what we’re building recognizing that this movement is bigger than just music. It’s about planting something meaningful in the scene: a culture rooted in love, unity, and open-hearted connection. When people come up and say, “I feel seen here,” that’s everything. That’s the mission.

One of our standout moments was Rane that show was pure magic. The energy was real, raw, and full of love. It felt like a community reunion, almost like a family cookout where everyone came as they were and left feeling lifted. That night reminded me that we’re not just throwing shows we’re building spaces for healing, expression, and human connection through sound.

And this is just the beginning. I see Mob Zero becoming a home for the unheard, a bridge for the overlooked, and a movement that reminds people why they fell in love with this scene in the first place.

4. How do you decide which artists to book for your events – what catches your eye when scouting talent?

I focus on artists who know how to tap into emotion because when you listen to a track, it should hit a certain way. Music isn’t just sound; it’s frequency, it’s energy. I’m always aiming to match those frequencies so that people don’t just hear the music they feel it. Especially on the dance floor, where everything comes alive, it’s about creating an experience that moves both the body and the soul.

5. If you could curate your own dream lineup, who’s headlining and where’s it happening?

If I could curate my dream lineup, l’d have The Masquerade headlining no question. And the perfect setting? Somewhere in California, under the open sky. The energy out there is unmatched, and I can already picture the vibe: unforgettable, cinematic, and full of life.

6. What’s something most people don’t know about you outside of music?

I’m really into light novels and manga they’re my escape and a big part of what keeps me inspired. I’m also a huge foodie, and honestly, rice is my go-to comfort food. Might not be the healthiest all the time, but I love it.

I tend to keep to myself and spend a lot of time in my head probably more than I should. But that quiet space is where I reflect, recharge, and stay connected to what drives me.

7. What’s next for you and Mob Zero – any exciting plans or goals you can share??

We’ve got a lot in the works for the coming year some major moves, including out-of-state shows in collaboration with a few other companies. I can’t say too much just yet… but if you’ve been watching what we’re building, you’ll definitely want to stay tuned. Big things are on the horizon.

7. Any special shoutouts? Promo? Special message?

I want to give a major shoutout to my partner-in-crime, Vanirz. He’s not just my best friend he’s like a brother. He’s been one of my biggest motivators, always pushing me to chase this dream, whether it’s through life lessons, business moves, or music. He’s the family I never knew I needed. Much love to you, bro.

Big love to my Mob Zero fam too Nozy, DLO, Proxmosos, and Zurg. You’ve all been hitting new milestones fast, and I couldn’t be prouder. The work you’re doing shines brightly, and this is only the beginning. Keep that fire alive our moment is coming.

And to anyone out there tuning in: do you. If you know the kind of heart you have, don’t let anyone convince you to dim your light. Move at your own pace. It’s okay to rest, to pause, to figure things out. Just don’t lose your direction. Life’s too short to stress over timing. When you’re ready lock in, and go after your dream with everything you’ve got.