THE ALBUM
Diary of a Traveler: Weapon of Choice Pen is a 33-track spoken-word and poetry album by Kenny Radge, created in collaboration with British pianist, composer, arranger, and producer Deschanel Gordon. Released April 17, 2026, the project brings together spoken narrative, poetry, personal reflection, and jazz composition in a work that moves between intimate observation and broader questions about life, purpose, identity, leadership, conflict, faith, relationships, and personal evolution. Rather than treating the music as simply a backdrop for the spoken word, the album establishes an ongoing dialogue between Radge's voice and Gordon's compositions, allowing language, rhythm, melody, and silence to interact throughout the project.
The album unfolds as a journey through different states of thought and experience. Tracks include “Be My Guide,” “Grateful: What am I Grateful for This Morning?” “The Promise of a Better and Wealthier Life,” “Author of Your Own Story,” “Your Life Matters,” “Good Leadership,” “Rebel Leader,” “War,” and the title track “Weapon of Choice Pen” approach their subjects through distinct perspectives. At the same time, the project's ten bonus piano solos offer an instrumental extension of several of its central themes. The result is a work that connects the literary tradition of spoken word with the expressive language of jazz, with Gordon's piano and arrangements adding another dimension to Radge's storytelling. Diary of a Traveler: Weapon of Choice Pen is ultimately a record about using one's voice, one's experience, and one's creative tools to examine the journey of becoming.
ABOUT
Kenny Radge
Kenny Radge brings a distinctive voice to contemporary spoken word and poetry. Informed by a background in public service, extensive travel, and lived experience, his creative practice explores the power of the written word to document the human experience, navigate personal growth, and give meaning to the journey. Through observational narrative, expressive poetry, and the intimacy of his voice, Radge confronts complex questions of identity, purpose, relationships, leadership, and personal evolution. His work transforms experience into expression, inviting listeners to pause, reflect, and connect with the stories that shape who we are.
Deschanel Gordon
Deschanel Gordon is an acclaimed British pianist, composer, and producer who has established himself as a leading figure in classical and contemporary jazz. He attended the Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance in the UK and was honored as the BBC Young Jazz Musician of the Year in 2020. Known for his collaborations with Olivia Dean—where he performs as her bandmate and is a credited writer on her album *The Art of Loving*—Gordon brings a sophisticated, soulful approach to his arrangements and compositions, merging technical mastery with deep emotional resonance.
STREAM VIA APPLE MUSIC • SPOTIFY • TIDAL • YOUTUBE • AMAZON MUSIC • DEEZER • IHEARTRADIO • DISTROKID • APPLE MUSIC • SPOTIFY • TIDAL • YOUTUBE • AMAZON MUSIC • DEEZER • IHEARTRADIO • DISTROKID
CREDITS
Kenny R Gordon: Writer, Composer, Executive Producer, Music Producer & Creative Director
Deschanel Gordon: Music Producer, Composer, Arranger, Pianist & Organist
Scott Steinman: Recording Engineer & Mastering Engineer
Kenny R Gordon and KGM Studio: Album Artwork & Design
CONTACT
To contact us for inquiries, bookings, collaborations, or to share your thoughts on the album, we can be reached at