Ambrose Kenny-Smith

Ambrose Thomas Kenny-Smith (born 20 July 1992) is an Australian singer, songwriter and multi‑instrumentalist. He is a member of King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard, to which he contributes vocals, harmonica, keyboards, saxophone, and occasionally guitar, and the lead vocalist and harmonica player of the Murlocs. With the Murlocs, Kenny‑Smith earned multiple entries on the ARIA Charts, including a top ten for Bittersweet Demons. In 2024 he released the collaborative album Ill Times with Jay Watson (as GUM), the inaugural release on King Gizzard's label p(doom) Records.

Early life Kenny-Smith was born in Geelong, Victoria, and grew up in Castlemaine and Ocean Grove. His father was musician and actor Broderick Smith, and his mother is model and yoga instructor Lou (Louise) Kenny. Kenny‑Smith was a talented skateboarder in his youth, gaining sponsorships and living a nomadic lifestyle, before turning his main focus to music. He has recalled being teased by older skateboarding peers for his interest in music.

Influences Kenny‑Smith has cited influences including John Lennon, Harry Nilsson, John and Emma Rhodes, Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Sonny Terry, His first musical experiences involved listening to blues records as he fell asleep and busking.

Career King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard Kenny‑Smith joined Melbourne band King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard early in its history, becoming the last member of the group's core lineup. Within the band he contributes vocals, harmonica, keyboards and saxophone on recordings and in concert.

The Murlocs Kenny‑Smith fronts the Murlocs as lead singer and harmonica player. The group's garage‑rock and R&B‑tinged sound has been noted for his “powerful, wailing” vocals and gritty harmonica. Critics highlighted its groove‑heavy blend of soul, synth‑pop and psych‑rock, and noted the album's lyrical tributes to Kenny‑Smith's late father, including opener “Dud”. The artists also framed the record around themes of loss, grief and resilience. Kenny‑Smith has spoken about experiencing anxiety,

Discography

Collaborative albums Ill Times (2024) – with GUM (Jay Watson).