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Curt Keyz – Charlotte’s Maestro of Soul
From gospel roots to symphonic soul, Curt Keyz is one of Charlotte’s most brilliant and genre-defying artists. A classically trained pianist, soulful vocalist, producer, and educator, Curt is known for blending R&B, jazz, gospel, and classical influences into a sound that’s both timeless and trailblazing.Join me as we talk about his artistic journey, the heartbeat of the Queen City’s music scene, and how he’s shaping the next generation of musicians while creating music that moves the soul. We’ll also dive into his creative process, his love for live performance, and the spiritual thread that runs through everything he does.
Don’t miss this inspiring and music-rich episode of Local Music Somewhere — where local sounds meet global purpose.
Curt Keyz Performs + Talks Soul, Spirit & Charlotte’s Music Scene
About Me – Curt Keyz
Curt Keyz, born Curtis Hayes, hails from the tight-knit town of Great Falls, South Carolina. In 2011, he began studying piano at Winthrop University, but left soon after to pursue his music career—a choice that launched a journey of passion, purpose, and creative impact. Now based in Charlotte, NC, Curt has grown into a powerhouse of artistic expression, wearing many hats as a Stellar Award-winning songwriter, producer, vocalist, and seasoned performer. In 2019, Curt earned a Stellar Award for his work on “Keep Pushin’” by Keith Wonderboy Johnson (Spirit/SRT/Shanachie), which won Category #12: Traditional Group/Duo of the Year. A year earlier, his debut album Love or The Lack Thereof climbed into the Top 75 on Amazon Music, marking a key breakthrough in his solo career. His 2021 follow-up album Curt(Is) was praised by Grammy-nominated artist Eric Roberson and acclaimed producer Dana Johnson, further establishing Curt as a respected figure in modern soul. In 2024, Curt co-produced “Caged Bird” by Leon Timbo and wrote/performed the single “Spend the Night” by Marcus Anderson, saxophonist for Prince. Curt’s music has also found a home in TV and film, with his original track “Saturn Love x BRAVE” featured on OWN, and his song “They Know” placed in Season 1 of BET+’s “Diarra in Detroit.” From 2014 to 2020, Curt toured nationally with gospel group Darrel McFadden & The Disciples, and in 2025, joined Grammy Award-winning artist Avery*Sunshine on tour. His live performances have headlined Charlotte SHOUT! (2023), sold out Evening Muse (including his 2022 The Big Picture live recording), and earned him spots at festivals like Confluence (2023), Boom Festival (2020), FTS Fest (with Keke Wyatt and The Ton3s), and NC State’s Packapalooza. Curt’s upcoming projects include a short film-driven EP What About Bob, a live album The Big Picture (releasing Nov. 11, 2025), and a holiday release Christmas With Curt (October 2025). At his core, Curt Keyz creates to move people—spiritually, emotionally, and rhythmically. His sound blends nostalgic soul with modern storytelling, delivered with honesty, intentionality, and Southern charm.Recent Highlights
- Curt(Is) album praised by Eric Roberson and Dana Johnson (2021)
- Co-produced “Caged Bird” by Leon Timbo (2024)
- Wrote/performed “Spend the Night” by Marcus Anderson (2024)
- Music featured on OWN, BET+ (Diarra in Detroit), and Peacock – Stellar Award Winner for Keith Wonderboy Johnson’s Keep Pushin’ (2019)
Live Performances
- Charlotte SHOUT! (Headliner, 2023)
- Evening Muse (3x sold out)
- Confluence Festival (2023)
- FTS Fest w/ Keke Wyatt & The Ton3s (2024)
- Tour with Grammy winner Avery*Sunshine (2025)
Storytellers: Curt Keyz’s Production Company
Curt Keyz’s production company is called Storytellers. Keyz, a producer and recording artist, emphasizes the significance of storytelling within his music. He and Terry explore his unique approach to music production, which is centered around the art of storytelling.Advice
Curt Keyz suggests that artists should adopt a consistent approach, understanding that achieving success in the music industry is a long-term endeavor. He also stresses the significance of concentrating on a limited number of objectives and acknowledging accomplishments along the way to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Keyz points out that the majority of the music industry is made up of individuals who work on music part-time, in moonlighting gigs such as: * Performing in party bands * Playing in coffee shops * Providing music for weddings and funerals * Offering singing telegrams * Releasing music independentlyMore Artists and Show Episodes
