Kinchen has opened for many groups and artist, such as Nelly, Earth Wind and Fire, and the Rebirth Brass Band, just to name a few. Although this life may seem glamorous, everything behind the scenes was not always perfect. Kinchen said that through the years the Right Pieces have had many adjustments and have had members come and go.
“Sometimes people couldn’t keep up, like due to their schedules and things, and I think they thought it would be all fun, but it’s like an actual job, being on the road and everything” said Kinchen of his fellow bandmates.
He also stated the process to find the right mix was extremely hard and there were certain factors that played a role in creating the perfect band.
“I looked for talent, work ethic, and overall personality. I mean, if I'm going to be on a tour with you for at least 10 or more hours you’re going to have to be somewhat entertaining and blend well with your peers” Kinchen said laughing. Kinchen felt that the name of the band, Tyler Kinchen and the “right pieces” was prophetic and aided in the band's success.
Kinchen graduated in english with a focus in creative writing. He started out a political science major, but decided that he wanted to better change the world, one step at a time. Kinchen kick started his career after two to three years of learning his identity and exploring his art form, while also shifting into gears of the profession. Between the years of 2011-2012 Kinchen began getting opportunities around New Orleans, where he first dipped his foot and tested the waters.
He began performing in the Marigny and on Bourbon. Kinchen feels as though New Orleans was a unique start for him. “It’s easy for me to underestimate it at times, but that city was and still is a huge catalyst for what I do” Kinchen speaks on the way the people and culture of the city has accepted him as one of their own.
Kinchen’s smooth rhythm and blues style resonates well with students around campus. Daryl Julien spoke of Kinchen’s music as saying “Woah, I was not expecting that! He sounds like he could be the new Robin Thicke.” At the beginning of the semester Southeastern hosted a block party where Kinchen showed his skills to the audience and was well received. Lately he has been on the road for the holidays, and is still on the go with rehearsals, but he still finds time to breathe.