Kem with Stokley, Kurtis Blow, and more

Born in St. Paul, Stokley Williams rose to fame with Mint Condition, known for hits like "Pretty Brown Eyes." He's collaborated with icons like Prince and received a Grammy nod.

Born in Harlem, Kurtis Blow was hip-hop’s first major solo rapper and the first signed to a major label. Known for hits like "The Breaks," he paved the way for Run-D.M.C. and shaped old-school rap.

Nashville-born, Detroit-raised KEM, a multiplatinum R&B icon, is known for hits like "Kemistry" and "Promise To Love." His collaborations include touring with Babyface. He's a three-time GRAMMY nominee, twice topped Billboard's R&B chart, and has six NAACP and two Soul Train nods.

Fantasia Barrino, born in High Point, NC, rose to fame after winning American Idol in 2004 with the hit "I Believe." Known for her dynamic gospel-rooted voice, she has released several RIAA-certified albums, including "Free Yourself" and "Fantasia." She won a Grammy for "Bittersweet" in 2010. Influenced by Aretha Franklin and Aerosmith, Barrino has collaborated with artists like Kelly Rowland and Missy Elliott. Her autobiography, "Life Is Not a Fairy Tale," became a film, and she continues to perform her unique "rock soul" style.

Frankie Beverly, born in Philadelphia, pioneered Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, an influential R&B band known for its soulful sound and live shows. Inspired by Marvin Gaye, Beverly crafted hits like "Happy Feelin's" and "Back in Stride." Maze, popular in the '70s and '80s, earned several gold albums despite limited pop hits. Beverly's bands evolved from Philadelphia's Raw Soul to Maze in the San Francisco Bay Area, with Marvin Gaye facilitating their Capitol Records contract. Despite few '90s hits, Maze's live performances maintained a loyal fan base. Beverly passed away on September 10, 2024.