Keonté Beals, born and raised in North Preston, Nova Scotia, is a talented, local singer whose passion for music started at age 7. Keonté dazzled audience members with his first solo performance, at 16 years old, in his home church, Saint Thomas Baptist Church in North Preston. This event opened up many opportunities to sing at othe churches and events around Halifax – a buzz was created!

In 2014, Keonté released a cover version of the song “I’m Here” from the popular movie soundtrack The Color Purple. The cover spread and generated even more talk about the singer. He then released his debut single #ManDown which created great media attention for its passionate lyrical value. In May 2017, Keonté released his self-titled debut EP/CD and through performances and events, he continues to bring forth incredible vocals, introducing a new sound to the Halifax music scene.

In recent years, these recordings have brought Keonté numerous nominations and awards, including: 3 Music Nova Scotia Award Nominations, the African Nova Scotian Music Association (ANSMA) Rising Star, and Emerging Artist of the Year Award and ESSO Festival Fan Choice Award.

Keonté performed on the mainstage at the 2015 Prismatic Arts Festival and Prismatic is pleased to have this rising star grace the stage again at Prismatic 2017.