CBS Philly Presents Reed Kendall

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - With influences like Dave Matthews Band, it is hard not to see how Reed Kendall of Up the Chain has steadily impressed Philadelphia music fans.

Acoustic rock artists have thrived in Philadelphia, and Up the Chain is one of the few, young groups in the area that can say they have seen success. Their debut studio album was released in February and will feature their hit song "Up the East Coast".

"Music is therapeutic for me," Reed said. "My music is soulful acoustic rock. I remember playing the guitar at a young age and learning as many Dave Matthews songs as I could. It was clear to me what I wanted to do with my life once I heard that," said Reed.

Despite the recent release of their debut album, this won't be the group's first exposure in Philadelphia. Their first record, titled "Live @ Milkboy," was released in 2009 and comprised of 14 live songs the group performed at the Milkboy Coffee in Ardmore.

"I go around and watch people play in Philadelphia mostly and I just get inspired to write better songs because of what they're offering," Reed said. "I try to give a sincere performance. That's how I connect with my audience, by meaning it."

Music has played a major role in Reed's life. He has been singing for as long as he could remember, and he even put out his first album while still in high school. Reed quickly realized that college wasn't for him and dropped out, but he maintained an influential presence around the area, performing at popular venues like Tin Angel and The Kimmel Center.

"I've met and got to know the music of a lot of incredible songwriters here in Philadelphia that have shaped my songwriting and performing," he said.

The soft spoken, child of the nineties is the powerhouse behind Up the Chain. As the lead singer/songwriter, Reed teaches people about life through his music.

"I find that I sing about things when I notice a lot of changes in my life. I sing about developments, changes, growth - good or bad. "

For more information about Reed and Up the Chain, visit upthechain.com

For a complete listing of CBSPhilly.com's best local artists, CLICK HERE.

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Reported by Crystal Cranmore, CBS Philly