Adrian England
On Thursday, January 25th, a voice of R&B and Funk echoed through Cavanaugh Hall at Indiana University of Indianapolis as Kevin “Flash” Ferrell, lead singer of the late 1970s group “Manchild,” graced our Rhythm and Revolution course class room, under the direction of Professor Trevor Potts. As a proud native of Indianapolis, Indiana, Kevin’s musical skill has sent shockwaves of energy, impacting audiences worldwide with his funkadelic performances. From his school days at Harry E. Wood High School to his time of work at Methodist Hospital of Indiana University Health, Kevin’s dedication to music has been consistently forthcoming. His soulful sound has drawn crowds from the streets of Halifax, Nova Scotia, to energetic locations around the world. His songs were also featured on WTLC Radio and other platforms in the city of Indianapolis, Indiana.
Kevin’s philosophy on music has deep meaning with our class as he shared, “When you write your own music, you begin to heal yourself.” His words define the power that music possesses. His point of view shows his lifelong commitment to the music that he writes. For Kevin, music is more than just playing sounds on a keyboard; music is like a guide for emotional expression and healing. He tells us of the importance of communicating messages subliminally through music. Each note has the potential to impact the life of the hearer. Kevin is a lead guitarist and recording artist who plays and records music in his studio at Kevin “Flash” Ferrell Productions.
As part of Kevin’s musical journey he shared in our class his mastery of “scatting,” a language of improvisation in a musical style using the voice. From a young age of eight, Kevin began cultivating his skills, creatively making sounds with his voice. “Scatting” was very popular during those times. The definition of “scatting” is the ability to bring to the attention of the mind “emotions” without the use of language. (Bee bop Bee bop skibibipiddy bop bop bee bop bop) Kevin has mastered this technique effortlessly and uses it in his music. The brotherhood family bond within the Manchild band represents the sound that you hear. Working together in their passion for music, they operate as a close nit family. Each member of the band offers their gifting to create R&B and Funk sound. As time moves on, Kevin’s passion for music continues as he writes the music that he loves.
Kevin is committed to his community and is seen through the lens of his involvement in events around the city of Indianapolis, IN such as the Jazz in the Park Blues in the Hood Concert Series of 2013. He would frequently travel to the northern region of Indiana were he says he can make the most money. I heard that he was performing at the Jazz in the Park in Watkins Park so I attended with some friends. His performances not only entertain but also inspire, as a sound of hope for those who love his music.. From jazz to funk, soul, and rock and roll, Kevin is multitalented as a musician that knows no bounds, as he draws an audiences with his high energy and stage presence. There is a dance move that he does when he spins on one foot. When I saw him do this at a concert w tried it but seem to lose my balance and would fall every time..
The release of Manchild’s albums “Power And Love” and “Feel The Phuff” catapulted Kevin’s musical career, putting him in a position as a musical extraordinaire. Tracks like “Red Hot Daddy” and “Don’t Get Me Rowdy” showcase Kevin’s vocal style, ability, and stage performance leaving an impression on the hearts of his fans. Kevin is committed to preserving the legacy of Manchild by sharing his music with future generations and will continue scatting and grooving to the rhythms of his music.
As Kevin continues to share his gift with others, his impact continues to bring social change from now in his lifetime to future generations. How he expresses himself with his music has made its mark with family and in history. Born into a family of musicians and singers, he was the one who stood out the most. The time spent with Kevin “Flash” Ferrell was most memorable. He is a family member that I never really had a chance to record music in the studio with or spend time with until now. Kevin’s musical journey is a testimony to the power of God’s given gift of music through him.