Sparkle and Shine: Dive into the Fabulous World of 'On The Boulevard
THE ARTIST
Ken Howard is a multi-talented individual with a rich artistic heritage. He is the great-nephew of Broadway actress Esther Howard, known for her prominent roles in notable musicals of the 1920s. Additionally, Ken Howard's great-grandfather is J. William Howard II, a respected music director. With degrees from UCLA and USC, Ken Howard has excelled in the arts while also making a significant impact as a licensed clinical social worker and certified sex therapist. He founded GayTherapyLA.com, a private practice that specializes in providing psychotherapy and coaching services for the LGBTQ+ community. Ken Howard's commitment to supporting this community is a testament to his compassion and advocacy. Residing in West Hollywood, California, he shares a loving and supportive partnership with his husband, Michael Ryan. Their home in West Hollywood, known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ community, reflects their shared values and progressive spirit.
In recent years, Ken Howard has ventured into music production and creative projects, culminating in the release of the groundbreaking LGBT-themed modern musical concept album titled "On the Boulevard." This ambitious project showcases Ken Howard's talent as a composer, lyricist, and librettist. Inspired by George Bernard Shaw's "Pygmalion," the album interweaves classic Broadway musical themes with contemporary cultural contexts. Ken Howard's dedication to his craft, commitment to the LGBTQ+ community, and relentless pursuit of artistic expression make him a remarkable individual who continues to inspire and uplift others through his therapeutic work, musical endeavors, and advocacy efforts.
THE MUSIC
Ken Howard's transformative and poignant 29-track EP, "On The Boulevard (Original Cast Concept Album)," masterfully combines classic musical elements with contemporary LGBT themes. Since its inception in 2015, this labor of love has involved a diverse group of collaborators and performers who bring their unique personalities and spirits to the production. With playful social commentary and heartfelt expressions of love, the songs in "On The Boulevard" create a captivating narrative, shining a spotlight on Ken's original concept, music, and lyrics, beautifully complemented by the libretto co-authored with Malcolm Heenman. This album, produced by Ken Howard, draws inspiration from George Bernard Shaw's "Pygmalion," skillfully intertwining timeless Broadway themes with the present cultural context.
Countless talents have contributed to the realization of this ambitious project. From the arrangers, orchestrators, and scorers like Kristopher Gee, Stuart Wood, Alex Meade, Wayne Moore, Silvio Buchmeier, and Michael Van Bodegom-Smith to the skilled music recording studio engineers such as Brandon Bustamante, Trevin Clay, Guy Baruch, and Chris McMasters, every individual involved has played a vital role in breathing life into this original musical. The EP showcases the early talents of numerous performers, supported by the contributions of Ryland Shelton, Gina Torrecilla, DeLandis McClam, Carol Barbee, Giancarlo Garritano, and breakout star Michael D'Elia.
Ken Howard expresses deep gratitude to friends, family, assistants, studios, consultants, and all those who have contributed to the project's success. Their unwavering support, insightful critiques, and boundless inspiration have been instrumental in shaping the EP. After being recorded at Temple Base Studios and Mix Recording Studios over several years, the "On The Boulevard" Concept Album eagerly awaits its first commercial theatrical staging, poised to captivate audiences with its exceptional blend of storytelling and music.
KEEP UP WITH KEN HOWARD BELOW:
