My First Job in Music: Kevin Ngo
Every month, Queer Capita highlights LGBTQ+ Music Industry Leaders through our series, My First Job in Music.
We continue the series with Kevin Ngo (He/Him), a Los Angeles-based songwriter and producer. Kevin’s journey is a masterclass in seizing opportunities and leading with a spirit of service. From navigating the J-pop market in Japan as an accidental demo singer to rebuilding his career back in the United States, Kevin has consistently prioritized community and creative resilience. He opens up about sneaking his way into his first indie songwriting cut, the power of a gentle nudge from mentors, and the importance of running your own race in a highly competitive industry.
Read about other LGBTQ+ Music Industry Leaders and Allies in our community.
What was your first job in music?
My first job in music was as a demo singer at Avex Entertainment when I lived in Japan, which is actually hilarious looking back because I don’t consider myself a singer at all. While doing this, I somehow snuck my way in and got my first indie cut as a songwriter. After that, they put me on their roster as a writer/producer for J-pop acts.
Who was someone who supported you to help you get your start in your career?
Mega-talented singer-songwriter Meghan Kabir (Kelly Clarkson, Sabrina Carpenter, Selena Gomez). Actually, she was integral in helping me restart. I moved back to the United States in 2019 to begin anew, and she graciously set aside time to connect with me after singing on one of my demos. She made a couple of introductions, but more importantly, throughout the years, she has given me the advice and encouragement I needed to stay the course whenever I felt helpless or didn’t know what the hell I was doing. Sometimes all we need is a gentle nudge to get us back on track when we lose our way.
What was a lesson you learned at the start of your career that you still carry with you?
Focus on “what you can give,” not “what you can get.” Doors open when you focus on how you can contribute and be of service to those around you. It builds goodwill, and people will remember you.
What was your favorite memory from your first job?
In 2018, I was called in to sing on a demo for a new boy band slated to debut later that year called “King & Prince.” It was challenging, and truthfully, I was sweating bullets... but the group later became one of the biggest acts in Japan, with over 25 #1 hits. It was surreal to play a small part in the early days of that project.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Stay focused on your “why.” There were so many days when I felt behind my peers or not good enough—I still feel that way sometimes. But when I remind myself that I do this work because I enjoy the process and it feeds something in me, I’m able to realign, and everything that doesn’t serve that falls to the wayside. One more piece of advice I’d give myself: don’t get distracted by what’s happening around you—run your own race.
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