Local teen guitarist becomes internet star

Without looking 16-year-old Kenan Salazar is making a name for himself in the internet music world.

FOX 29 Photojournalist Bill Rohrer has the story.

This high school junior can't hold back playing one of his favorite tunes. His basement is converted into a state of recording studio. A post on Facebook and YouTube of Kenan's latest cover is seen by thousands online. Kenan is not all about rock and roll. Charlie Parker's Donna Lee shows his appreciation for jazz.

This all started one day when Kenan's dad, Sherwin, grounded him,.

"When I was 9 years old my dad grounded me," he explained.

Up in his room, he worked on some chords his dad taught him a few months prior. After hearing Kenan up in his room, Sherwin challenged him to learn his favorite song. Kenan learned a Guns and Roses classic in just few hours.

"Where did this come from? I can play a little bit of guitar maybe hit a pattern on the drums. Nothing that I can perform outside like that," Sherwin said.

Ever since then Kenan's love for the guitar grew. So much, he decided to put his talent to good use. In 2013, Typhoon Haiyan hit the Philippines and most of Kenan's family was in need of help.

"He was like I need to do something to help. Maybe I can sell my songs," his dad said.

So Kenan put together a few original songs and raised money to be sent over to his family.

"He knows that his talent is not only for showing off. He can actually use it," Sherwin said.

His family in the Philippines is fine now and continues to share his success with them online posting his latest videos for everyone to see and hear.