Some students find it hard to balance school with a part-time job, sport or other extracurricular activity. LaDarius Thomas, known in the local hip hop scene as Kayez, is a jack-of-all-trades with a resume that spans across the spectrum of entertainment: he is a singer, songwriter, producer, dancer, actor and model. Somehow he can fit “student” in there as well.

Thomas, a theatre major from McDonough, wants to revitalize the Athens hip hop scene.

He has been directing his efforts primarily towards songwriting and producing eclectic hip hop and pop music that moves away from the negative images of gangster rap.

“I try to be innovative and different – not different to say I am a non-conformist, but I try to keep myself pretty positive,” Thomas said.

Thomas writes some songs based on real-life stories. Other songs are hopeful messages.

“[I write some songs about] being able to pursue anything you want and to enjoy life,” Thomas said.

When writing his songs, Thomas focuses not only on the words, notes or beats but also on the production and composition of the music.

His other artistic forms of expression, like dancing as an apprentice for the Ballroom Performance Group, have had a great influence on his music.

“I think it helps me as an entertainer. Because I love to dance, a lot of my songs are . danceable,” he said.

Thomas is currently working on a compilation of his songs, but he is cautious in calling it an album.

“I have a few songs, but I am not at the cohesive point to really call it an album,” Thomas said.

Thomas has been asked to perform by various organizations on campus and is now exercising his abilities as an affiliated artist of the new group Mean Mic Entertainment.

Tommy Valentine, who founded Mean Mic Entertainment with Bobby Stamps, explains that, while their relationship is new, Thomas has left a great impression with everything he has done so far.

“He writes hip hop music with the music in mind,” Valentine said. While many MCs put the lyrics first, thus creating great verses but songs with no staying power, Valentine is pleased with Thomas’ ability to compose songs with the final product in mind.

“Not only does LaDarius think outside of the box musically, but he delivers a dynamic stage show. Best of all, he manages to do both of these things while maintaining a completely professional work ethic,” Valentine said.