(NEWARK, NJ) -- New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) presents a special evening with KEM, known as Soul's Greatness, on Friday, July 18, 2025 at 8:00pm. Special guest Melanie Fiona will open the night.
KEM's passion for music and the emotions he brings to life on stages worldwide have been a part of him since childhood, when he played the old piano at his grandfather's church.
R&B Superstar KEM ascended from the shadows of addiction and homelessness on the streets of Detroit to become a legendary figure in Motown’s rich musical history. His music is a captivating blend of sensuous, groove-laden melodies paired with his mesmerizing vocals enveloped in lyrics that overflow with love, emotion, and hope. Often likened to iconic artists such as Sam Cooke, Otis Redding, Al Jarreau, and Marvin Gaye, KEM’s music is a testament to his innate storytelling prowess and lyrical depth.
Tickets start at $49 and are available for purchase online, by calling (888.466.5722), or at the NJPAC box office (1 Center Street in Newark, New Jersey.
KEM's journey into music began as a means to cope with his life’s trials, and soon evolved into an avenue for expressing his deepest emotions. In April 2023, KEM unveiled his best-selling memoir, Share My Life, A Journey of Love, Faith, and Redemption, co-authored by David Ritz. This powerful memoir provides a glimpse into his tumultuous path leading up to and through his darkest moments.
Music became KEM’s sanctuary during a challenging upbringing, a medium through which he could communicate when words fell short. As he composed reflective lyrics drawn from his life experiences, his signature vocals and melodic expressions gave voice to his innermost feelings.
For more than two decades, millions have embraced the man and his music, drawn to his honest lyrics, distinctive voice, and magnetic stage presence. KEM’s incredible transformation from a homeless young man battling addiction to a beloved figure in R&B is evident in the evolution of his music.
He revitalized his spirit while perfecting songs in homeless shelters amidst the daily struggles of seeking his next meal and battling addiction. A pivotal moment arrived on the night of his 23rd birthday in 1990, as KEM sat by the Detroit River nursing a bottle of Colt 45. A revelation struck him – one that would lead him to surrender to faith and propel him toward his destiny as one of music’s most vital voices.
KEM’s musical journey is studded with remarkable achievements. He independently released his debut album, KEMISTRY, in 2002, leading to his recording deal with Motown Records. His first Number One Hit, “Love Calls” solidified his status as an R&B powerhouse. Subsequent albums, including KEM ALBUM II, INTIMACY, PROMISE TO LOVE, WHAT CHRISTMAS MEANS, LOVE ALWAYS WINS, and FULL CIRCLE, yielded eight #1 chart-toppers, platinum and gold certifications, and multiple GRAMMY® nominations.
KEM’s philanthropic endeavors mirror his generous spirit. In 2012, he founded Mack & Third, Inc., a non-profit organization whose mission is built on the premise that no basic human need should go unmet due to lack of resources. Mack & Third provides funding to humanitarian aid organizations related to: homelessness; hunger; substance abuse; domestic violence; natural disasters; education; and other worthwhile causes. To further support his vision, KEM launched the “Mack & Third LIVE” event, a large-scale, all-day concert fundraiser and food drive to benefit and recognize Detroit’s homeless citizens. His “Mack & Third LIVE” concert fundraiser an all-day music festival, fundraiser and food drive has provided free meals to thousands of homeless individuals. KEM also served as a distinguished Board Trustee for the Chicago GRAMMY® Chapter from 2016 to 2019.
KEM will be joined at NJPAC by two-time GRAMMY®-winning singer Melanie Fiona. Her soulful charm, wit and storytelling abilities come through in “It Kills Me,” “4 AM,” “Fool for You” and “Wrong Side of a Love Song.” Feel the love with these two outstanding R&B voices.
New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), located in downtown Newark, New Jersey, is among the largest performing arts centers in the United States. It is the artistic, cultural, educational and civic center of New Jersey — where great performances and events enhance and transform lives every day. As New Jersey’s anchor cultural institution, NJPAC brings diverse communities together, providing access to all and showcasing the State’s and the world’s best artists, while acting as a leading catalyst in the revitalization of its home city. Through its extensive Arts Education programs, NJPAC is shaping the next generation of artists and arts enthusiasts. NJPAC has attracted more than 11 million visitors (including more than two million children) since opening its doors in 1997, and nurtures meaningful and lasting relationships with each of its constituents.
