Baba Jenkins, a four-piece indie rock band from Los Angeles, California, has been busy in the studio this past year. The group released its debut album earlier this year, comprising 100% original songs that take listeners on an emotional rollercoaster. Dubbed one of the most impressive indie releases this year, the songs are eclectic and varied while still being cohesive as an album, something not easily done in today’s music world. Baba Jenkins manages to walk a tightrope between real-life stories that have ups and downs with fun, feel-good songs that keep you wanting more.
Consisting of Rone Worthen (vocals), Guy Keefer (guitar/production), Ekko Gaha (drums), and Kerwin “Skooter” Williams (bass/production), Baba Jenkins brings together artists primed to make a difference. Moving seamlessly from big band crescendos to stripped-down bluesy ballads, Baba Jenkins’ music ranges from happy-go-lucky tunes to sad ballads, but it all has one thing in common: it’s so good! Inspired by a wide array of musical influences, the band members feel there shouldn’t be limitations on what they want to play or how they want to sound. Their mission is to create awesome music that keeps fans on their feet and takes their minds on a journey.
Established in 2021, Baba Jenkins made its debut in the music industry with the single “Dance On Me” in January 2022 on SiriusXM Tom Petty Radio. This came after a chance meeting with drumming legend, Steve Ferrone, who has since become the band’s friend and number-one fan. In March, Ferrone aired the band’s single, “Dynamite (A Tribute to Muddy Waters)”, on his brilliant monthly program, The New Guy Show, on SiriusXM Tom Petty Radio. At the same time, Cliff Beach on LA radio station 88.5 FM KCSN took a liking and played their single, “Rendezvous”, on his hot weekly program, Deeper Grooves.
The group’s success with airplay paved the way for greater things, including playing in live shows in LA since May. Baba Jenkins has been playing monthly since then in various venues citywide. The band’s refreshing style caters to all audiences, keeping everyone on their feet during the band’s performances. Baba Jenkins is big on giving back and supports Sharing Love With Others, which feeds 400+ homeless people every Saturday on Skid Row in Los Angeles. The band hopes to grow its community even further, which will, in turn, help them raise more money to give back.
As successful newcomers to the music scene in LA, the Baba Jenkins bandmates understand how difficult it can be to break through and find notoriety in this space. They also prove that success is possible if you don’t give up. “Be persistent in the nicest possible way,” they encourage. “At some point, people will respond if you have put in the work and have something strong to show for it. You have to love the game.”
On their part, the bandmates are setting their sights further. “Baba Jenkins is a global brand,” they say. “We see ourselves playing all over the world in our quest or aspiration to share our music, as well as our passion to give back and help people in need with the success we know we can achieve.”
LA Collide 