More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
A musician with cerebral palsy, using his voice to inspire others, has released his first ever single with the help of celebrity coach, Dr Voice.
Alfie Draper who lives near Broadwater Road in West Malling has been singing ever since he can remember. Now he is one step closer to achieving his dream of winning a Grammy with his first single 'Dark Skies and Stormy Nights'.
Talking about his achievements Mr Draper said: "The song is about being in a situation of hardship or unrequited love.
"It's just saying I’ve been through that and it's kind of a ballad of my experience.
"I'm 100% happy with it. I think it really reflects who I am as an artist and the kind of music I want to create."
Mr Draper wrote the lyrics while Anthony Wade, known as Dr Voice who has worked with artists such as Sam Smith and winners from The Voice, helped with the music.
The former Valence School pupil has been working with Dr Voice from the age of 15 and visits him once a week at his studio in Stratford.
The ultimate goal for Mr Draper is to encourage people to not let disabilities get in the way of their goals.
He added: "I just want to show people, whether they’re in a similar situation to me or whether they have their own battles, that they can achieve anything they want to if they try hard enough.
Cerebral palsy is a physical condition that affects a person's movement, posture and co-ordination.
It is usually caused by a brain injury during, or shortly after birth, such as a lack of oxygen.
To promote his music, Mr Draper has been busking in Maidstone town centre and hopes to get started on new music as soon as possible.
The single is available on all streaming platforms. Click here to listen to 'Dark skies and stormy nights' .
