Today we’d like to introduce you to Conner McKibbin
Hi Conner, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I started my journey in music about 10 years ago in an ambient music project known as Glasir. We did pretty well for a bunch of 16-year-olds. In this group I did my first tour, put out my first record, and was signed to my first record label. Around the time I was 17 my father passed from A.L.S. and I moved away from music. I ended up selling all of my music equipment and working as a bartender. I worked hard and partied hard for about 7 years. Looking back, I can see that I was trying to suppress the pain and turmoil that was caused from watching my dad go through what he went through. Eventually I found myself deep into an addiction to methamphetamine which nearly ended my life on multiple occasions. About 3 days before turning 25 I decided to check myself into rehab. I stayed in the rehab center as well as interned there for about 7 months. Once I got clean, I started to revert back to the things I loved when I was in my late teens. One of those things being music. I felt as if I was rediscovering my identity which led me back to my love for creating and playing music.
When I moved back home, I began focusing heavily on music. I downloaded Ableton and began to learn how the program worked, as well as bought my first DJ controller. This is when I fell in love with dance music. I booked my first gig DJing at La Reunion in Bishop Arts in 2023 and things kind of snowballed from there. I eventually started listening to a genre known as Garage that is very prominent in the UK. This genre consists of 2-step kick patterns, heavy swing, and big bass. This led me to start my first concept party hosted by Lady Love that I called Rude Boy Rodeo.
Jumping to present day, I tend to lean towards dance music that has evolved from R&B, hip hop and rap, genres that I loved growing up. Things like Jersey Club, Baltimore Club, Ghetto tech, and footwork, which is most likely what you will hear at any DJ Kibs set. I like soul and bounce when it comes to the music I play. It’s been a long journey to get to where I am today, filled with personal growth and self-discovery, and I thank music for that.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I wouldn’t say it’s been a smooth road but I wouldn’t say it has been rough either. As an artist I feel like I’m constantly growing, evolving and learning, which is beautiful and uncomfortable.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I would say, I’m known for creating and playing high energy, club music. I just want everyone to have fun and let loose a little bit. If I can get everyone in the club moving, then I have done my job.
I am most proud of the music I produce. I think being able to play more original music is what sets me apart from other DJs. Producing music, not only makes my sets more unique, but also, gives me a beautiful outlet to express myself. It has taught me to be confident in who I am as an artist.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I think the fact that I don’t drink/am in recovery always surprises people. I am very open about my history with addiction because it is a part of who I am. I am not embarrassed by what I have been through because I would not be where I am without my experience.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kibsdallas.bandcamp.com/music
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kibs.dtx/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Kibsathome
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/kibsnbit
Image Credits
Roman McCallister
Mikalah O’Reilly
Triico
Cora Allen
