iSound

Persistence. Determination. Communication. Three descriptive definitions that encapsule the life of singer/songwriter Kenny Harlan. Born Kenneth Harlan Sachs, he was raised by working-class parents, just a stone’s throw (or two) away from Wrigley Field in Chicago. Being a Cubs fan was in his genes. So was an all-around athleticism (baseball, football and basketball) and a burning desire to fulfill his musical calling. After harmonizing with the junior high chorus, Kenny’s first taste of what would later become his life’s ambition came when he and two of his buddies entered a school talent show, with rousing renditions of “Rock Around the Clock” and “Crocodile Rock.” The songs, while still raw and rough around the edges to Kenny’s liking, were every bit about who he was and what he wanted to communicate. From that point on, he picked up the music he had once so reluctantly laid down and began pursuit of his dream. After moving to Nashville, he met his soon-to-be wife, Marina (a U...