Northampton's 'KD' launches artist career after bringing one of the biggest records of the decade

After more than 15 years embedded in the global music industry behind the scenes, Keith Doyle who grew up in Northampton and known artistically as KD; steps forward as an artist in his own right, delivering a bold, club-driven statement that marks the next chapter of a career that has already touched the very highest levels of music and culture.

KD’s journey into music began not behind a microphone, but behind a camera. Starting out as a local music photographer in Northampton, his work quickly caught the attention of major online music publications, leading to international assignments photographing artists including Kings of Leon, Janet Jackson, Elton John, Busta Rhymes, Ice Cube, Tinchy Stryder, Pixie Lott and more. A chance encounter with Michael Jackson’s personal photographer in Coventry led to Keith being shortlisted to photograph Michael Jackson’s tribute concert in Cardiff for the Jackson family’s private archive — an early indicator that his career was moving on a global trajectory.

Keith went on to co-found a Northampton-based artist promotions platform, where he discovered and managed UK rapper Jevon, placing him on stages with Skepta, securing live tours across Europe and support from BBC Introducing. That role opened the door to Keith’s evolution into A&R, where he would later be instrumental in placing Astronaut In The Ocean with international artist Masked Wolf — a decision that went on to produce one of the biggest records of the decade. The track reached #6 on the Billboard Hot 100, #1 on the Billboard Rap Chart, became the most 'Shazamed' song of 2021, achieved diamond status and multi-platinum certifications across the world, and amassed billions of global streams

Rather than slowing down after that achievement, Keith co-founded Verse Three Records Ltd alongside producer and singer-songwriter Steve “Lofty” Liddle and songwriter Alvin Koumetio. Since its launch, Verse Three has quickly established itself as a forward-thinking independent label, releasing Lofty’s Unstoppable EP, Quiet Steps, and a recent Afro-house re-imagining of Ray Charles’ Hit The Road Jack — all with Keith deeply involved in the songwriting and A&R direction.

Now, with Breakout EP, KD completes what he describes as “a logical journey that finally comes full circle.”

“It has been a journey of 15 years,” says KD. “When I look back at where it started, from photographing artists, to managing, to A&R, to building a label, this feels like the natural next step. I’ve worked with incredible people along the way, and I couldn’t be happier to now be making music with friends I’ve known and trusted for so long. Releasing my own material on Verse Three Records feels like the right moment to step forward.”

KD has co-written and co-produced all three tracks on Breakout EP alongside Lofty and Alvin Koumetio, working with standout male and female vocalists to deliver a project that is designed for club impact.

Breakout EP Tracklist

1. Panty Dropper

A hard-hitting, late-night club record driven by cheeky, playful and provocative lyrics. With early DJ support already building, this track is positioned as a standout for dancefloors and playlists alike.

2. Problem Child

Built around a powerful female topline, this is another club-ready weapon, combining sleek production with infectious hooks and a confident, modern energy.

3. To The Other Side

Closing the EP, this track begins with a minimalist introduction that allows the vocal to fully capture the listener, before expanding into a euphoric, high-energy drop, a perfect final statement to the project.

Ahead of the EP, KD will release his debut single “Fighter” in collaboration with Lofty on Wednesday 21st January 2026. Produced by Lofty and co-written by Keith Doyle and Alvin Koumetio, Fighter introduces a more club-focused sound ahead of the EP’s release.

“This track is a lot more club than what we’ve been releasing,” says KD. “It’s the perfect introduction to my sound before the EP drops on January 30th.”

With Breakout EP, KD steps into the spotlight not as an industry insider, but as a fully formed artist — backed by years of experience, world-class collaborators, and a clear creative vision.

Release Information

Artist: KD

Title: Breakout EP

Label: Verse Three Records Ltd

Release Date: Friday 30th January 2026

Available on all major streaming platforms from Friday 30th January 2026

Follow KD

Instagram: @KD_ANR

Follow Verse Three Records

Instagram: @Verse3Records