22 Nov 2024

Nick Williams aka Karnel was born and bred in West Auckland, New Zealand. Growing up he was heavily influenced by the musical stylings of the Cook Islands, with his mother playing this music every morning. Karnels father Pat is his greatest influence having played in a number of bands since his youth. Pat's love of music was passed to Karnel who went on to play guitar and drums. While at Massey High School Karnel was part of a band called New Era. In his 7th form year Karnel made the choice to move to Gisborne with his older brother Jay Williams aka Phoenix, where Karnel studied at Gisborne Boys High School. Both Karnel and Phoenix were strongly motivated by the youth they had met along the way and became passionate about improving the lives of young people. In 2003 both brothers formed the Youth Performing Arts troupe HIGHER LEARNING which was based on the 4 main kaupapa No Drugs No Suicide No Racism No Passengers In that time they commanded a group of rappers, singers, dancers and drama students from Gisborne who performed at various events and claimed a number of followers. Karnel assisted in the production of their album- People. In 2005 Karnel was driven by the desire to come back to Auckland and raise his game. He enrolled at Excel Performing Arts school and while studying created the Higher Learning West Auckland team. The 'Wolfpack' as they were named followed the same kaupapa and reached out in much the same way as their G Town counterparts. Karnel produced their album Culture. At the end of 05 Karnel graduated from Excel with a Diploma in Drama. In the meantime Karnel has continued with his love for young people and has been working close with his brother Phoenix with his newly formed secondary schools program - Phoenix NZYP . Karnel continues to strive for excellence and is all about raising and representing young people. It has now been more then 9 years since Karnel's journey started. 2011 is new year for him and big plans to push his solo career begins with his first and long awaited single "Gone" featuring super producer Daniel Love. Stay tuned for more updates

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