There is nothing traditional about the journey that led Kem on the path to R&B stardom – which makes his story all the more special.
His fairytale experience in the music business, is one that he often shares during the course of his live show – one that he may make mention of when he heads to the Fox Theatre tomorrow (Sat., Mar. 5).
“What we did with the Kemistry CD was we put the music in the hands of the people,” Kem said. “And they loved it.”
After being rejected from labels left and right, Kem took a leap of faith by using his American Express card to finance his destiny. He wrote, produced, and financed his self-released debut album. The response was astounding. So much so that the industry – the same one that greeted Kem with turned backs and closed doors – took action.
“If you get the people on your side, the record deals and the radio stations will follow,” Kem said. “Connect with those who will put your music in the hands of the people – that’s everything.”
He’s obviously on to something.
After fans went to bat for Kemistry, Kem was signed to Motown in 2001. In 2003 the label re-released the album. And thanks in part to the single “Love Calls,” Kemistry was certified gold not long after its major label release. He sideswiped the sophomore jinx with another certified gold album when II was released in 2005.
And now he’s riding high on the success of “Share My Life,” the second single from his latest CD Intimacy, which was released August 17.
“In all of my music I try to be as genuine and authentic as I can,” Kem said. “The Intimacy album is vulnerable and it’s free in the sense that there aren’t a lot of constraints on the songs.”
According to Kem, the secret to his staying power and connection with fans is simple – it lies in the same authenticity he applies to his sound.
“I think why people gravitate to what we do because it’s true and it’s real,” Kem said. “There’s no gimmick. You can’t deny a great song – and I try to create, record and perform good music.”
On stage he manages to connect with listeners in a way that seems organic. He combines his unique musical perspective with an energy that commands attention and praise.
“Everything I do is a gift — and it’s extremely rewarding on so many levels,” Kem said. “I just show up and allow it to happen.”
When he shows up at the Fox tomorrow, Kem says fans can expect the best.
“If they love the music, that’s what we try to represent on stage when you come to the shows,” Kem said. On our worst day we sound exactly like the record.”
Kem will make his Fox Theatre debut tomorrow night at 8 p.m. with special guests Ledisi and Musiq Soulchild. For more information, call (314) 534-1111 or visit www.metrotix.com.
