Marvin “The Fly” Kee was more than a musician he was a driving force behind Calgary’s music community for decades. Now, more than three years after his passing, family members, friends, and longtime collaborators have come together to complete and release his final album, ensuring his creative legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Growing up in Calgary during the 1980s, Kee showed promise in many areas. A talented student and accomplished athlete, he excelled in tennis, baseball, and basketball. However, music ultimately became his lifelong passion after meeting future bandmates at Branton Junior High School. Together, they formed the punk-funk band The High Rollers, launching a career that would span more than three decades.
Throughout his life, Kee became a beloved figure in Calgary’s music scene, performing with numerous bands across a wide range of genres, including funk, soul, punk, blues, flamenco, and rock. Known for connecting artists and fostering community, he earned a reputation as someone who introduced people to new music, ideas, and creative opportunities.
Following his death in March 2023 at the age of 53, tributes poured in from across the city. In 2024, Calgary artist Alex Kwong unveiled a mural honoring Kee along Inglewood’s Music Mile. The celebration also included Flyfest, a large musical tribute that brought together many of the artists he had worked with throughout his career.
On June 21, Calgary-based Mo Gravy Records will release Weapon of Mass Creation, the final Flytrap album—Flytrap being the name Kee used for his solo recordings. Before his passing, Kee recorded tracks at seven different studios but was unable to complete the project. The album was finished through the efforts of his sister Linda Kee, producer Evgeniy Bykovets, and more than 20 musicians who helped bring his vision to life.
The record blends funk, neo-soul, R&B, acid jazz, punk, and hip-hop while showcasing Kee’s distinctive guitar and bass work. Featured contributors include vocalists Amy Lee Owens, Chenelle Roberts, Ainsley Christine, Yolanda Sargeant, Sammy Jean, and legendary New York rapper Kool Keith.
One of the album’s most personal moments comes through a spoken-word segment in which Kee reflects on discovering influential artists such as Earth, Wind & Fire, Jimi Hendrix, and Sly and the Family Stone as a teenager. The experience, he recalled, opened up an entirely new world and helped shape his musical journey.
Kee’s determination never wavered, even after being diagnosed with cancer in 2021. He continued recording and performing while undergoing treatment, remaining committed to sharing music with audiences. His final performance took place during JUNOfest in Edmonton in March 2023, just days before his passing.
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