Detroit’s beloved R&B icon, Kem, is embarking on a new journey as he parts ways with the legendary Motown Records after 23 years.
Kem shared his thoughts on the pivotal moment in his career during an appearance on “Live In The D.” “I’ve been signed to the Motown label for 23 years - and it gave me an opportunity to step back and look at the span of my career, the state of the industry now. We decided that the move forward is to be independent, and we’re really, really, really excited about it.”
Kem reflected on the mutual success he and the label have enjoyed. “We’ve had a wonderful relationship with the label. I’ve been profitable for the label, and the label has been profitable for me. It’s a win-win.”
As for the upcoming concerts, Kem is thrilled to add a second show at the Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre. He will now perform on July 25th and 26th. “We’ll be down on the river, on the waterfront at the Aretha, so it’s going to be a good time,” he said. The concerts are particularly special as they fall right after his birthday.
For Kem, the themes of love, healing, and redemption remain central to his music. “My mantra is love, especially in the season that we’re living in right now. I think it’s really important that we’re putting positivity out, that we’re helping people navigate their lives.”
To watch the entire interview, click the video above.