Artists:Kemp Harris

Kemp Harris is a composer, musician, author and actor. With almost four decades behind him as a songwriter and performer, Kemp Harris has collaborated with a surprising list of talent. He has shared the stage with Koko Taylor, Taj Mahal and Gil-Scott Heron, as well as composing original music for the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre.

Born in North Carolina, Kemp taught himself piano and was writing songs at age 14.

Kemp's latest release, Edenton, Harris' wide range of experience comes through in a powerful and intensely personal album. The album features the legendary Holmes Brothers on backing vocals. With the support of the Holmes Brothers, Harris' original songwriting and performances reflect a mature artist not content to rehash the cliches of the blues and roots genre. Harris shows his willingness to fuse diverse elements in the search for a more modern and timely blues. Edenton, brings an edgier, darker vibe to this traditional American music style.

Kemp's previous release, Sometimes in Bad Weather, is a thoughtful tapestry exploring the intersection of American roots music, jazz, and African folk influences.

Kemp currently maintains a songwriting residency at the Wang Center for the Performing Arts in Boston in conjunction with Berklee College of Music, assisting talented young artists with composition and performance.

As an actor, Kemp has performed in television, film, and on stage. His more recent work includes Steven Spielberg's Amistad.