Kenny Lattimore
Kenny Lattimore, born on April 10, 1970, in Washington, D.C., is an American R&B singer renowned for his smooth voice and romantic ballads. Raised in a musical environment, Lattimore was influenced by gospel music as well as iconic R&B and pop artists such as Chaka Khan, Marvin Gaye, Donny Hathaway, and Stevie Wonder. His upbringing played a significant role in shaping his musical style and aspirations.
Lattimore showed an early interest in music, performing publicly throughout his high school years. He attended Howard University, where he became the lead singer in the university's band, further honing his skills and preparing for a professional career in music.
Kenny Lattimore gained prominence in the 1990s with the release of his self-titled debut album in 1996, which showcased his smooth R&B sound. His most famous single, "For You," became a major hit and established him as a leading figure in the genre. Throughout his career, Lattimore has released several albums that have received critical acclaim, solidifying his reputation as a talented and enduring artist in the music industry.
Lattimore was married to singer Chanté Moore from 2002 to 2011. In 2020, he married American judge Faith Jenkins. He has two children: a son, Kenny Lattimore Jr. (born 2003), from his first marriage, and a daughter (born 2023) with Faith Jenkins.
Kenny Lattimore is recognized not only for his music but also for his contributions to the community and the legacy he has built over decades. His ability to connect emotionally with audiences through his songs is a testament to his artistry and enduring popularity in the R&B genre.
In summary, Kenny Lattimore is a distinguished soul singer with a rich musical background, a successful career, and a lasting impact on the R&B music scene.
Kenny Lattimore
Arranged By [Vocal] – Kipper Jones
Producer, Keyboards – Dave "Jam" Hall
Written-By – D. Hall, K. Jones
5:31
2 Just What It Takes
Guitar – Glenn McKinney
Producer, Instruments, Arranged By [Vocal] – Keith Crouch
Written-By – K. Crouch, K. Jones
5:04
3 I Won't Let You Down
Arranged By [Vocal] – Kipper Jones
Producer, Keyboards – Dave "Jam" Hall
Written-By – C. Womack, D. Hall, G. Noble, Jr., K. Lattimore, K. Jones, L. Womack
4:59
4 All I Want
Producer, Instruments – Herb Middleton
Written-By – H. Middleton, K. Lattimore
4:53
5 Forever
Producer, Instruments – Herb Middleton
Written-By – H. Middleton, K. Lattimore
4:48
6 For You
Acoustic Guitar – Georg Wadenius
Concertmaster – Richard Henrickson
Contractor – Al Brown
Keyboards, Drum Programming – Kenny Lerum
Producer, Keyboards, Drum Programming – Barry J. Eastmond
Strings – Al Brown, Charles Libove, Harry Zaratzian, Jesse Levy, John Pinta Valle, Karen S. Dreyfus, Max Ellen, Olivia Koppell, Regis Landioris, Richard Henrickson, Richard Locker, W. Sanford Allen, Winteron Garvey
Written-By – K. Lerum
3:57
7 Joy
Producer, Instruments, Programmed By – J. Dibbs
Written-By – D. Jenkins, K. Lattimore
4:36
8 Where Did Love Go
Guitar [Additional] – Raymond Jenkins
Producer, Instruments, Programmed By – J. Dibbs
Written-By – D. Jenkins, K. Lattimore, S. Kendrick
4:13
9 Forgiveness
Backing Vocals – Kenny Lattimore
Cello – Cameron Stone
Guitar – Glenn Arthur
Producer, Backing Vocals – Kipper Jones
Producer, Programmed By, Sequenced By, Instruments – Kenneth Crouch
Violin – Lili Haydn
Written-By – K. Crouch, K. Jones
4:09
10 Always Remember
Producer – Kipper Jones, Oji Pierce
Written-By – K. Lattimore, K. Jones, O. Pierce
5:42
11 Climb The Mountain
Producer, Instruments – James Abney
Saxophone – Derrick Edmonson
Written-By – J. Abney
5:49
12 I Won't Forget (Whose I Am)
Congas – Jimmy Abney
Producer – Kenny Lattimore
Producer, Instruments – Sam Kendrick
Written-By – K. Lattimore
4:05
Label: Columbia – COL 483747 2
Format: CD, Album
Country: Europe
Released: 1996
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Contemporary R&B, Soul
Kenny Lattimore's 1996 self-titled debut album received generally positive reviews, praised for his smooth, classic-soul voice reminiscent of Donny Hathaway and Marvin Gaye, showcasing his talent with polished production, though some critics noted inconsistent songwriting that occasionally dragged, but ultimately established him as a mature, soulful voice in R&B with hits like "Never Too Busy" and the Grammy-nominated "For You".
Lattimore's smooth, controlled tenor was a highlight, with reviewers noting his ability to convey emotion and deliver sophisticated vocal performances, especially on stronger tracks.
The album went Gold, hit the R&B Top 20, and earned Lattimore a Grammy nomination for "For You," solidifying his place in the music scene.
Critics loved that the album brought back a soulful, less-processed R&B sound, standing apart from contemporary trends. The slick production enhances his voice, making even weaker songs enjoyable. Some reviewers found the song selection uneven, with tracks like "Never Too Busy" being enjoyable but perhaps too laid-back or repetitive, while others lacked punch.
Overall Impression: A promising debut that highlighted Lattimore's natural talent as a sophisticated soul singer. It Offeres a mature, relaxing vibe for listeners seeking hip yet smooth R&B, and is considered a necessary addition to R&B, establishing his unique sound distinct from contemporaries like D'Angelo and Maxwell.