A talent does not have to be discovered early in life for it to become one’s passion.
Five years ago, Dadeville native Luke Keel found his love for singing while participating in the Dadeville High School choir. Although it started out as a fun activity, he began practicing on his own time. He then realized he had an affinity for singing.
“I’ve always loved music,” Keel said. “I love listening to all kinds of music, and I think it’s shaped the way I sing.”
His wide variety of musical preferences is evident when he performs. His setlist ranges from well-known country songs to classic rock hits.
During the week, Keel works at his family’s company in Dadeville, Sunshine Heating and Air. When he’s not working, he’s either working on improving his vocal talents, or preparing for his next gig. Most recently, Keel has played at Prime Steakhouse, the Funky Goat and other venues around Lake Martin. Although he is native to the area, performing around the lake has given him a new perspective of the community.
“My favorite thing about singing at local venues is meeting new people,” Keel said. “I also love the engagement of people I do know who come to my events.”
Earlier in the year, he put his talents to the test as he participated in Kowaliga Idol where he made it to the competition’s final round. Even at the start of the competition, Keel felt confident in his skills and stage presence; however, it wasn’t until the end he learned a lot through the competition.
“I wasn’t really worried about winning after the fact,” Keel said. “In general, I got so much better as a performer and singer from the experience.”
Now that he has become more comfortable on stage, he is looking to take his talents one step further by writing and creating his own songs. He has not yet developed any original songs; however, writing new songs is something he wants to pursue as he progresses in his music career, he said.
Keel’s next live performance will be Aug. 30 at the Lucky Flight Bottle Shoppe in Dadeville.