(August 16, 2022) The year 2021 marked the 20th anniversary of Detroit’s own Kem signing with the label born in the Motor City, Motown Records. The brilliant singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist has released six albums since, three of which certified gold (Kemistry, Album II, Intimacy – Album II) and one platinum (Album II).
With this latest First Listen, Kem revisits the track “Lonely” (originally from his last album, Love Always Wins) with a smooth groove remix, found on the latest release, The First Circle EP. The “Lonely” remix is much more ethereal than the original with the “ghost” keyboard chords while creating its own jazz-driven groove thanks to the mellow guitar and rhythm section. As for Kem’s vocals and lyrical storytelling – soulfully gentle singing while telling his lover that one cannot ignore the need for love.
“Lonely” is a late summer night’s soulful dream of a groove, worthy of several repeat listens.
By Kevin Goins
Kem – “Lonely (Remix)”