Interview: Kemi Ade

Kemi Ade – The Alternative R&B Queen

Kemi Ade is a rising voice in alternative R&B, known for her smooth vocals, emotive storytelling, and genre-blending sound. With her latest release THE FIX, she continues to showcase her ability to combine soulful melodies with raw, honest lyrics that resonate deeply with listeners. Independent, fearless, and unapologetically authentic, Kemi Ade is carving out her own space in the modern R&B landscape, offering fans music that’s both intimate and powerful. Her artistry is a testament to the transformative power of music, and every track tells a story that lingers long after the song ends.

Question 1: Can you tell us a little about yourself and what inspired you to start making music?

I really do believe that I came out of the womb knowing that music was my path, but my earliest memories of life and music are of watching my mum sing in the choir. Just being amazed and at home in the beauty of that form of expression. I really felt music, but career-wise, knowing it was something I could do; well, my parents have + had great taste in music, so seeing albums like Daydream, The Bodygaurd, CrazySexyCool, The Score, just to name a few made me aware it could be done.

Question 2: Who or what are your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped your sound?

Beyoncé, I know everyone says that, but she has been an inspiration since ‘Get on the Bus’. Obsessed with that Destiny’s Child song. Even Britney Spears, I’ve always been a lover of POP and R&B, I genuinely believe they go hand in hand. Writing-wise, Beyoncé again, Frank Ocean, Andre 3000 loved him and his way with words ever since I heard ‘Sumthin’ wicked this way comes’. Tbh, my inspiration list really encompasses every artist I grew up listening to, has and continues to have influence on me. I think it really depends on what part of my music journey I’m focused on, and then that highlights who currently inspires me the most. But Beyoncé is the reigning champ for a few reasons: her commitment to excellence, her work ethic, and her attention to detail, just to name a few.

Question 3: How would you describe your music style to someone who hasn’t heard your songs before?

Alt R&B POP. I love R&B. I grew up in several choirs, and my parents’ collection was extensive, so that’s my foundation. Pop because I love melodies, catchy and infectious, and by definition, POP music is just popular music, and I want to make music that has that impact. I also think I make music that sounds like it’s from London, idk how to explain, but it may be the influence of the diaspora and the exposure to BRITPOP. Hints of it are in my music. But yes, ALT R&B POP.

Question 4: Your latest mixtape THE FIX is out now — what was the inspiration behind this track?

For a while, I had wanted to make music truly inspired by my influences, and this mixtape was my opportunity to really do that. I gave myself freedom to have fun and explore the sounds I was especially obsessed with at the time. Thematically, it feels like a journey of my becoming, each song a “toxic” and I use the term loosely, trait that needs to be addressed within, not just me, but all of us.

Think of it as a journey to your breakthrough. There’s always some excuse to have a trip with someone you F with, but ultimately, your higher self is begging you for mercy. Hoping in the end you will choose yourself, so you can say thank you and truly appreciate the journey you took.

Question 5: Can you walk us through your creative process when writing or producing a song?

I don’t know how to explain it, but it can start with melodies, it can start with a melody and lyrics, or a concept.  One thing I will say, I love watching producers create, it may be a little bit of an obsession. I tend to sit close and just take in their process, then something they do sparks me, and boom, music is being channeled and created.

Question 6: Do you have a favorite song you’ve released so far, and what makes it special to you?

It changes all the time but right now Merci and A.S.E

Merci reminds me that the best decision I have ever made is to listen to my gut. I know when something is finished, and instead of delaying the inevitable, let it go.

A.S.E. is my ‘Get up and achieve the goals you set for yourself, GIRL ‘ song. haha. Because there’s always some excuse to not do something, so when I listen to it, it makes me want to get up and move. Eventually, I have no excuse but to do the thing.

Question 7: How do you balance being an independent artist while managing other aspects of your life

Right now, it’s much easier for me, as I am currently in physio, from ACL reconstruction surgery, but I’d say being grounded, I have my things that keep me solid, and I do them no matter what.

Question 8: What challenges have you faced as an independent R&B artist, and how have you overcome them?

For me, probably discipline and team. It’s discipline that fuels everything, and that focus comes from you, and then it will attract the right people into your journey. Money and all that will come, but I believe once you have mastered discipline, focus, and the team. The sky is your limit.

Question 9: Are there any collaborations or artists you dream of working with in the future?

I love Doechii and Kwn. Rihanna and Beyoncé. I love the women right now, they’re killing it. Oh! Leon Thomas I love him,

Question 10: How do you connect with your fans and maintain engagement with your music?

TikTok is my app for connection i’m not great, but I am doing better than I was and will continue to. I like updating my fans about my life and my music discoveries because with music, I’m forever a student, and I love to share what I’ve discovered about myself and the music I love.

Question 11: What can your fans expect next from you? Are there upcoming projects or singles you can share?

More music always. But for now, enjoy The Fix; that baby of mine is timeless. But definitely more music asap.

Question 12: What advice would you give to emerging artists who are just starting in the music industry?

Trust your vision, your ear, and your gut. Don’t be afraid to grow and stop comparing yourself.  Everyone’s journey is different, and you know what you want to create.  So focus on that and do it.