Kevin D. Stroud is a distinguished singer-songwriter and accomplished guitarist whose extensive career spans several decades and multiple continents. From 1999 to 2001, he toured the United States and 14 other countries, including Europe, the U.K., and Scandinavia, as a rhythm and lead guitarist for the renowned Malaco Recording artist and Soul/Blues legend, Little Milton.
Stroud's songwriting process is a masterful blend of diverse influences, drawing from Country, Pop, Americana, Blues, and Top 40 music. He begins by immersing himself in the emotional core of each genre, weaving together its distinct rhythms and themes to create a cohesive sound. Stroud crafts lyrics that resonate with universal experiences, infusing them with the storytelling richness of Americana and Country and the dynamic energy of Top 40. His melodies often incorporate the soulful depth of Blues and the catchy hooks of Pop, resulting in songs that are both heartfelt and commercially compelling. This unique fusion ensures his music connects deeply with a wide audience.
In April 2001, Stroud expanded his international footprint by traveling to France to assemble a band for Joe Turner and The Memphis Blues Caravan. This effort resulted in a European tour that included performances in France, the U.K., Poland, Lithuania, and Luxembourg.
Stroud's songwriting prowess was highlighted in 2002 when he co-wrote the title track of "Storms of Life," the second album by Blues/Rock virtuoso Bernard Allison, released on Tone-Cool Records and produced by David Z. The album debuted at #5 on the Billboard Music Blues Charts on August 30, 2002, where it maintained a prominent position for 11 weeks. Between 2005 and 2009, Stroud was a key contributor at Guitar Center Store #118 in Lawndale, CA, one of the leading high-volume retail music stores in the United States.
Stroud has remained active in the music industry, participating in various competitions and auditions. He submitted songs to the USA Songwriting Competition in 2012, 2018, 2021, and 2022. Additionally, he auditioned for America's Got Talent in 2013 and participated in the 2018 International Songwriting Competition. During 2022 and 2023, Stroud submitted original compositions in multiple genres, including Country, Pop, Americana, and Top 40 music, to prestigious competitions such as The International Songwriting Competition, The John Lennon Songwriting Competition, IAMA, NSAI, and the 27th Annual USA Songwriting Competition.
In November 2022, Stroud was honored as a finalist in the USA Songwriting Competition in two categories: Gospel/Inspirational and Lyrics Only. Subsequently, on November 29, 2022, his song "Dance In Heaven" won 1st Prize in the Gospel/Inspirational category and achieved 2nd Overall in the 27th Annual USA Songwriting Competition.