Kem: Overcoming self, maybe? Even on the road, I’m surrounded by healthy choices and unhealthy choices. But there’s always a choice. Every hotel has a salmon or chicken meal option. And the more successful you are, the more choices you have. I feel like, on the road, you’re actually more conscious of this. But at home, it’s harder, because I know where all the bad food is. I have to try harder to overcome the urge to stop off at Quizno’s on the way to baggage claim, instead of waiting and eating something healthier.
BDO: What health grade would you give yourself?
Kem: I’d say B-
BDO: Okay, two things…what is your favorite healthy food, and what is your favorite not-so-healthy, guilty pleasure food?
Kem: My favorite vegetable is broccolini or Brussels sprouts…I like salads. As far as something not quite as great for you, I love a good pizza, everything on it. I usually try to eat what I want, but I also pay attention to how much of it I’m eating.
BDO: Who or what would you see as the main reason for your success?
Kem: God’s grace.
BDO: What would you say is one of the greatest lessons you’ve learned from your life, so far?
Kem: The need for fluidity in life. I’ll always be learning, and I’m becoming more comfortable with myself, and less concerned about what others think. I know that worrying about this too much can keep me from honoring the truth about who I am. Life is funny like that…you’re born not putting so much focus on what others’ think, and as we grow older, we get back to the way we started out! I know I won’t be able to make everyone happy…and that’s okay.
BDO: Are there any health conditions that run in your family?
Kem: Sure, like other Black families, mine has its share of health issues, including heart disease. There is definitely a genetic thing to be aware of, but I also think that we are responsible for our own health. There’s a huge opportunity to take whatever your dealt and play the largest role in caring for yourself. My take on this is that my family’s health issues stop with me!
BDO: Like all of us, there have been some less than positive moments in your life. You’ve endured being homeless, battled addictions…can you talk a little about that, and what you did to help improve your life?
Kem: Addiction is something else that runs in my family. I came around in July 1990. I just got to the point of being sick and tired of being sick and tired. I got help. People showed me how to live a better life. I actually don’t regret my past, because the foundation of my life was built on my recovery.
BDO: What lessons do you hope to teach your children?
Kem: My children will know how to make their own choices, the ones that are right for them. I also want them to understand that they don’t need to seek someone outside of themselves to be happy.
BDO: Well, it’s been an honor talking to you! Again, thanks so much for taking the time to talk!
Kem: Again, the pleasure was mine…thank you!
For more information about Kem, be sure to visit him at Music By Kem.com.