Kevin Carlberg’s life has been defined by two distinctive moments; when he picked up that old beat up acoustic guitar at a garage sale when he was 17, and when he was diagnosed with brain cancer when he was 25. The music and moments in between and after have etched his character and refined his passion.

In 1995, Kevin began UCLA with blind ambition and that same acoustic guitar. He excelled in his studies and his musical adeptness, impressing students and gathering crowds at the local open mic nights. He was soon spotted by four other UCLA musicians and quickly formed the band “Pseudopod” -mixing jazzy rhythms, classic rock riffages and pop sensibilities.

Capitalizing on their fervent student support, the foursome recorded their self released debut, “Pod” in the summer of 1998, and then spent the next three years going to classes on Monday through Wednesday and the rest of the week on the road. During that time, they not only earned degrees, but played more than a hundred shows a year. They opened for such diverse acts such as Blues Traveler, G Love and the Special Sauce, The Dave Matthews Band and Ozomatli when they weren’t headlining themselves.

In 1999, they beat out thousands of talented bands and were crowned Rolling Stones “Best College Band in America.” They took their prize money, recorded a demo, and earned themselves a buzz worthy recording contract with Interscope Records. Their albums single, “All Over You.” neared the top of AAA radio charts.

In November 2002, Kevin was diagnosed with brain cancer while on tour in Colorado. Soon after surgery, Kevin underwent radiation and chemotherapy, managing to squeeze in his glorious wedding in Northern California, and share invaluable moments with family, friends and loyal fans. He was featured on the cover of the LA Times and in People Magazine, leading to over 50 radio, magazine and television interviews, where he told his story and played his music. When the intense part of Kevin’s treatment concluded, Kevin hit the road with a big scar and an even bigger heart. His new perspective on life prompted a renewed faith and appreciation for his musical talent. Kevin soon started an altruistic program where in each town his band traveled to, he stopped into a children’s hospital to play music. It is his battle that makes them kindred, his music that brings them joy.

Over a weekend during tour, Kevin recorded a unique acoustic CD with famed record producer Paul Ebersold in Memphis, Tennessee. He quickly sold a couple of thousand to fans eager to here exactly what musical magic his battle had inspired. He raised money for his mounting medical bills, and distributed the CD to other cancer patients and fund raising organizations.

Today, Kevin has amicably parted ways with his band mates of Pseudopod and is embarking on an ambitious, health-friendly solo career. His music and story continues to garner press and momentum, but most importantly, hope.