Singer-songwriter KEVNN C. “Tracks” Path for Mental Health Awareness

Nina Krish and Olivia Ganes

Songze “Kevin” Chen, “KEVNN C.” has released 2 songs and will release his third song “Are We Happy After All?” on May 29. He is working toward his first EP releasing in late summer of 2026.

Media controller in hand, adjusting the knobs for ambident pad and a clean distortion of guitar, singer-songwriter, producer and senior Songze “Kevin” Chen, professionally known as “KEVNN C.” creates music — blending genres of EDM, pop and rock, Chen uses his music to spread awareness about anxiety and mental health.

Chen started his music journey 12 years ago through classical piano lessons, developing a foundation in basic music theory and an appreciation for classical pieces. In June 2025, he furthered his passion for music when he began producing original tracks, experimenting with different instruments and genres on his controller.

“I experience a lot of social media anxiety,” Chen said. “I recognize that mental health issues are a very prominent issue, especially in teens. So I think it would be good to have a song, especially about that topic. People feel that they’re like being seen, they’re being recognized. They feel better after listening.”

Chen has accumulated over 12,000 followers on Instagram and over 59,000 monthly listeners on Spotify, fueled by a consistent release schedule of one song every four weeks and a debut album in the works. He was inspired to dive deeper into music through the Portola Music Pop Band program led by music director Kyle Traska, , according to Chen.

“When I came to Portola, I found that we have this amazing contemporary music program led by Traska,” Chen said. “I feel very grateful because it’s one of the few programs in Orange County that’s contemporary music related. I auditioned and joined the program, and I found a bunch of kids; they’re relatable, contemporary, and resonate as a teenager group. They kind of pushed me to write a song of my own.”

Following the release of his first song, “You Won’t Catch me Crying” on Feb. 27, 2026, Chen began posting on Instagram to reach a wider audience, gaining traction and a Spotify following. His friend and photographer, junior Ren Tabata offered to shoot content to aid in his marketing.

“I just saw him grow, not just on Spotify, but through his social media, which I think is a really big part of his music career,” Tabata said. “What’s really impressive is that he is able to stay consistent with his posting, his school and releasing songs which contributed to his success not just on Spotify, but also on social media.”

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About the Contributors

Nina Krish, Managing Editor

Nina Krish is a Managing Editor for her third and final year on the Portola Pilot. She is beaming to finally write sports stories again with her best friend Olivia. In her free time, you can find her baking or making matcha with Kayley. She frequents Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods in search of new snacks to eat during Pilot. She can’t wait to work with the new staff and plan the best parties.

Olivia Ganes, Visual Director

Olivia Ganes is the Visual Director and the Social Media Manager for her third and final year on the Portola Pilot. She’s excited to design new graphics and write sports stories with her best friend Nina. If she isn’t scrambling to finish her math homework, you can probably find her eating a snack and listening to her favorite music.