Kem, Detroit’s own Grammy-nominated Universal Motown recording artist, was absent from the music scene for nearly five years, leaving fans longing for his soulful and soothing voice. His comeback with Intimacy: Album III introduced a deeper, even more authentic Kem. Earlier this year, it was officially certified gold.
A likely outcome considering he’d witnessed the birth of his third child, Layla, which inspired some of the album’s emotional depth. “Fatherhood is one of the highest levels of intimacy and having a daughter is life changing. It made me think about my legacy, my mortality, how my work affects my relationship with my children and how I treat women. I think this record is me at my most vulnerable,” he shares.
Since his foray onto the music scene nearly a decade ago, on his inaugural album, Kemistry, Kem’s been open. Fans are often heard describing him as a “gifted vocalist” who provides “a solid music experience.”
Kem’s endured heartache and hardship. Once a resident of Detroit‘s Rescue Mission Ministries, Kem says, “Growing up, [I sought] something outside of myself. God brought people into my life to show me a better way to live.”
A “better way to live” is exactly what Kem is trying to pass on to current residents at the mission. Kem hosts and headlines Mack & Third, an annual fundraiser to collect food and raise money for Detroit-area homeless shelters and food banks; to provide a free getaway for Detroiters from the stresses of their current situations; to serve a free meal to the homeless and others in need; and to encourage people to volunteer and give.
Kem’s big-screen acting debut will happen with the release of the movie, Sparkle, starring Jordin Sparks and the late Whitney Houston.
