Kevin Ross is a distinguished American R&B singer, songwriter, and producer, celebrated for his soulful voice, compelling songwriting, and significant contributions to contemporary R&B.
Early Life and Education
Born on December 8, 1987, in Washington, D.C., Ross was immersed in music from a young age, influenced by his musically inclined family. He attended the Duke Ellington School of the Arts, a performing arts high school in D.C., where he honed his musical talents. Pursuing higher education, Ross earned a scholarship to the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, studying contemporary writing and production.
Career Highlights
Ross’s career commenced as a songwriter, crafting songs for notable artists such as Trey Songz, Jamie Foxx, Toni Braxton, Nicki Minaj, Johnny Gill, and SWV. His songwriting prowess led to a recording contract with Motown Records, under which he released his debut EP, Dialogue in the Grey, in 2014. The EP featured collaborations with artists like Ne-Yo and T.I., and Ross toured nationally, opening for Maxwell and Ne-Yo.
In 2017, Ross released his debut album, The Awakening, which included the hit single “Long Song Away.” This track topped both the Billboard Adult R&B Songs Chart and the Urban Adult Contemporary Chart.
Seeking creative independence, Ross departed from Motown and established his own label, Art Society Music Group (ASMG). Under ASMG, he released several projects, including Drive EP (2017), Audacity Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 (2020), and Drive 2 (2021), which debuted at #1 on the iTunes Top R&B/Soul Albums Chart.
In 2025, Ross unveiled Love Uptempo Vol. 1, an EP characterized by its “high vibrational R&B” and absence of ballads, reflecting a dynamic and intentional musical intensity.
Recognition and Influence
Ross’s contributions have earned him nominations from the Soul Train Music Awards, NAACP Image Awards, and iHeart Radio Music Awards. His music has garnered over 100 million streams, and he has received acclaim from outlets like Billboard, Rolling Stone, and BET.
With a blend of classic soul and contemporary R&B, Kevin Ross continues to shape the genre, delivering authentic and resonant music that reflects his artistry and dedication.For a deeper insight into Kevin Ross’s journey and perspectives, you might find this interview enlightening:
Kevin Ross on His Career, Leaving The Major Label, Going Independent