Kernald, a rap artist from Des Moines, Iowa, added “ALD” to his middle name, Kern, to create a unique stage name. With a passion for music, Kernald started working at 14 years old to buy studio equipment and later joined the Army National Guard at 17 years old while still pursuing his music career. Kernald’s early exposure to the Beastie Boys inspired him to write his first rap for an extra credit project in 8th grade math class. His most popular track among fans is “After Party,” which is a testament to his early talent as a rapper. Although Kernald’s music often deals with troubled relationships from his past, he considers himself an artist, not just a rapper, and aims to touch on many different topics in his music.
Could you tell us the meaning behind Your name?
My middle name is Kern, I added the “ALD” while brainstorming a rap name in 2018. I felt it added uniqueness and it worked; I am yet to meet another Kernald.
What song would you say is your fans #1 favorite song by you?
“After Party” has to be the fan favorite off my catalog. It’s one of my earliest tracks but it’s one the crowd yells word-for-word at every show.
Where are you from?
I am from Des Moines, Iowa.
What’s your background?
I was an average kid. I went to public school and was always very involved. I began working a summer job at 14 years old to be able to buy studio equipment, enlisted into the Army National Guard at 17 years old, and to this day, (19 years old) I work full-time and drill with my unit one weekend a month, perusing music any chance i get
What is your earliest memory of rap music?
In early years of elementary school my mom would always play the Beastie Boys so I remember loving their music at a very early age.
How did you get into rap music?
I wrote my first ever rap for an extra credit project in my 8th grade math class. I realized very early that I could use music as a way to cope with personal problems potentially helping others with theirs down the road.
When did you start rapping?
I began writing, recording, and mixing my own vocals in 2018. I didn’t make use of those skills until 2022 when I recorded and released my first official project, “Attention to the Barracks”.
Who are some of your biggest influences?
My biggest influences, especially in recent years have to be Iann Dior and The Kid Laroi. Both are very talented musicians and very genuine, humble guys.
How would you describe your style?
I like to think of myself as an artist. Not specifically a rapper, and although most of my tracks touch on troubled relationships in my past, I aim to speak on much more than that.
Are there any particular themes or messages that you often explore in your music?
Right back to the relationships. A lot of my songs about heartbreak. Some aren’t but most are and shit, who’s gonna stop me?
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