Musical Heights: Vocalist Kelly Levesque KNOWAutism Goodwill Ambassador
A stunningly beautiful native New Yorker who began her career in the studio at the age of 3, Kelly Levesque’s soaring vocal range, beautiful tone, and stunning stage presence has provided her with an international recording and performing profile. Levesque has performed on leading international stages with such artists as Andrea Bocelli, David Foster, Josh Groban, Michael Bolton, John Legend, Chris Botti, and many more. She will soon be adding the title of KNOWAutism’s Goodwill Ambassador to her list of accomplishments.
The Foundation is partnering with her to produce a music video, studio recording, and live performance of a new rendition of Levesque’s song, “I Won’t Let You Down.” This music video is scheduled to be revealed at KNOWAutism Foundation’s 2019 “As I Am” Gala on February 22, 2019 at the Houston Briar Club. “I Won’t Let You Down” is inspired by a parent’s unconditional love for their child and the sacrifices they would make to care for them.
“She is a genuine talent. Her voice is golden and able to inspire and entertain, a true artist able to write and produce as well. She’s a rare talent that is going to shake up the world! #FACT.”
Says Jamie Foxx – Oscar, Golden Globe And Grammy Award Winning Actor/Comedian/Singer/Songwriter.
Tammy Tran Nguyen, Founder of KNOWAutism, wanted to create a new version of the song. “This time, I wanted to incorporate violins, cello, and an inclusive children’s choir,” says Tammy. She also wanted to film a new music video that demonstrates the power of inclusion and acceptance.
To make this dream a reality, KNOWAutism Executive Director, Lauren Dawson, teamed up with Vivaldi Music Academy, Theatre Under the Stars, and The River Performing & Visual Arts Center to bring together a diverse group of nearly 20 students. Ms. Dawson also worked closely with the families of two KNOWAutism grant recipients so they could successfully and meaningfully participate in the project as well. The new music video highlights one of these families, showing the real experience of a child gaining confidence through support and inclusion when given the opportunity. Tammy and Kelly also decided to bring in a surprise guest to play the song’s new violin solo. “It’s none other than our longtime supporter and friend of KNOWAutism, Dr. Sippi Khurana,” informs Tammy Tran.
The music video was curated under the direction of Frank Naccari of Plan Z Productions at The Westview School, a private school for high-functioning children with autism. Throughout the project, the students worked closely with Kelly Levesque, Dr. Khurana, and Zeljko Pavlovic, founder of Vivaldi Music Academy and renowned violinist, who also generously lent his talent and guidance to the project.
Photos By Lee Cherry at Cherry Multimedia