Kennett Sound Studios Project

current
Written By Jameson Elder

Joe Keene (l.) and Hunter Moore at Dunklin County Library in Kennett, Missouri, February 2020.

I selected Kennett Sound Studios (KSS) as the subject of my dissertation shortly after meeting with Joe Keene, the studio’s former owner, in February 2020. As a result of our meeting, Keene donated a large collection of KSS recordings to the Center for Popular Music (CPM). I processed the donated recordings during my professional residency at the CPM, listening to portions of each LP and 45. In preparation for the reissue of Keene’s recordings I listened to over 200 of Keene’s recordings before selecting twenty for the reissue. I also did extensive research before writing the 3,000-word essay for the reissue CD booklet.

Joe Keene speaking at panel celebrating the 50th anniversary of the opening of the new Kennett Sound Studios building and marker dedication, Dunklin County Library, November 2021

I researched and wrote the text for a historical marker on the site of the former KSS building. The panel discussion I organized at the Dunklin County Library as part of the marker dedication included individuals associated with the studio speaking about their experiences.

My research of KSS also includes extensive recorded interviews with Keene and others, and assembling primary sources related to Keene and the studio.

Jameson Elder
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