Caribbean-American Heritage Month Achiever: Papa Keith
[SOUTH FLORIDA]– Papa Keith, born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, first honed his skills in hip-hop and reggae clubs. He’s built up his name in the streets. Keith was given a show on Miami’s most notorious underground station Mixx 96. As a result, it set off his career in radio. After appearing regularly on the wildly popular “The Luke Show”, Papa Keith was hired to host his own show on Miami’s radio station WEDR (99 Jamz). Years later, Miami’s WMIB (103.5 The Beat) brought him to a position as host of his own show.
Jock On The Rise
Known for his engaging personality, personable demeanor, extraordinary skills on the radio and commercial voice-overs, Papa Keith has been recognized by national and local publications for his talents. Radio & Records named him as one of 10 “Jocks On The Rise” in 2003.
He was also featured in Miami New Times 2005 and 2013 “Best Of” edition as “Best FM Radio Personality & Best DJ”. According to Miami New Times, “Papa Keith is the man who takes you home smoothly and safely. Easing the stress of the day with hip-hop and humor. ” The Original West Indian” is a nickname that Papa Keith is immensely proud of. He represents his Trinidadian heritage on his radio show.
“I’ve always felt like an ambassador for Caribbean music,” says Papa Keith. “Hip-hop and Reggaeton originate from Caribbean music and they have grown, and I want to do whatever I can to help the music I love to experience even bigger growth”.
In January of 2003 Papa Keith created Island Beat–a weekly two-hour countdown and mix show. It became home to new and legendary reggae artists alike.
Strong Caribbean Ties
While Papa Keith is based in Miami he maintains deep ties all over the Caribbean. Over the years he has been hired to host parties in Jamaica, Antigua, Barbados, and Puerto Rico. Plus, St. Lucia, the Bahamas, Belize and the Cayman Islands.
Papa Keith’s relationships with artists and commitment to promoting the music of his culture led to the creation of “Papa Keith’s Karnivale”. Artists like Bounty Killer, Spragga Benz, Vybz Kartel, The Marleys, Red Rat, Wayne Wonder, Mr. Vegas, Kevin Lyttle, Wayne Marshall, Machel Montano, Assassin, Mr. Easy, Nina Sky and many more have all performed at Papa Keith’s annual events.
Event Host
Frequently sought after for hosting and emceeing special events, concerts and festivals in South Florida, New York and the Caribbean, Papa Keith is in demand. He has equal credibility in the hip-hop, reggae, dancehall, soca and compas communities. Plus, his passion and tireless work ethic have taken him far.
Papa Keith showcases his unique ability of being able to relate to a wide audience on a daily basis in Miami. His high energy, love of hip-hop and passion for Caribbean music has made an impact on South Florida radio and night clubs.
Papa Keith is currently a radio host and Production Director on South Florida’s 103.5 The Beat FM. In addition, he is syndicated in Houston, Texas on 93.7 The Beat FM and Cayman Islands 92.7 FM.
Papa Keith also provides numerous audio production services from TV, Website and Radio commercials to Voiceovers.