DETROIT, MI – Universal Motown’s critically acclaimed singer/songwriter/producer, KEM, who achieved gold-plus status with his 2002 debut album, Kemistry, and his sophomore CD, KEM Album III in 2005, has returned to the top of the charts with “Why Would You Stay,” the first single from his much-anticipated third album, Intimacy. “Why Would You Stay” currently resides at #5 on the Urban Contemporary Chart, and is climbing the charts faster than any other of KEM’s past hit singles. “Why Would You Stay” debuted at #18 on April 21, and since then has spent several weeks as the most added and greatest gaining single on published charts.
“Why Would You Stay” features the String Section of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, and illustrates an intimate confession of true remorse. The string arrangements come from the mastermind of the late legendary Motown Producer, David J. Van de Pitt, who produced Marvin Gaye’s What’s Going On album. Experimenting with the sounds of classic music, Detroit native KEM worked closely with Van de Pitt, creating one of the legend’s last songs before his untimely death this year. “It reminds you to appreciate each opportunity you’re given and to not take life for granted,” said KEM. “It was a connection made at just the right time that has turned out to be a blessing for me.”
For the first time, KEM, who self-produced his past two albums on her own, invited an outsider, Los Angeles based producer Rex Rideout (Luther Vandross, Angie Stone), into his studios to assist with completing production on the Intimacy CD. The result is a fuller sound and a greater range of musical styles that have an enhanced reach and appeal to a wider audience.
“Why Would You Stay” is the first of a collection of love ballads on the Intimacy album that are reflective of the inner thoughts of a man seeking to understand the true meaning of intimacy. “The moment you realize you’re not alone is your finest hour,” said KEM. “When I embraced the revelation that life is about connecting with others, a willingness to be vulnerable and the shared experiences created, I came to a place of self-acceptance. It opened me up to explore new facets of my current relationships, develop new relationships, and to be open to working with others. Now, I’m ready to step out – share my life and my new music.”
Since his last album, KEM has been active in the music business, continuing to make music and performing across the country. During this time he had the opportunity to perform at the White House, and in 2008 had the honor of performing at the inaugural celebration of President Barack Obama’s cabinet members. In 2009, he recorded a cover of “Golden Time of Day” on the tribute CD to Frankie Beverly and performed at Carnegie Hall to a standing ovation. He also spearheaded a new community service project, Mack & Third: A Call to Service, to bring attention to the plight of the homeless. Meanwhile, his previous hits, “Love Calls” and “I Can’t Stop Loving You” have continued to receive airplay and his live concert performances remain in demand.
Fans are clamoring for KEM to reveal his heart in his third album Intimacy, scheduled for release this summer. One thing is certain – he always delivers timeless music that his fans will enjoy for years to come.
Fans can stay up to date on KEM’s new music, accomplishments, tour dates and endeavors on his new website, www.MusicByKEM.com, on Facebook.com/musicbyKEM and on Twitter.com/KEM_Intimacy and can view his videos on YouTube.com/KEMtv.
