Article by Victoria Smith
THE SEVEN SERIES
Article by Victoria Smith
Kyle Love, the Ypsilanti-born-and-raised R&B artist, is delving into music within his community. His recent performance at Leon Speakers in Ann Arbor conveys the passion for his work, which he says was first sparked watching Michael Jackson in the 1988 film “Moonwalker.
“That just changed my life,” Love said.
It was not until the year of his debut album, Feels, that he fully experienced a sense of passion regarding his work. The album, released in 2022 under “Where She Creep,” highlighted his ability to define his work’s core themes.
“I needed to feel like there was a reason why my songs had to be heard.” says Love.
Love defines his sound as chill and dreamy, with his lyrics highlighting his lived experiences. He says he writes his songs similarly to a collection of journal entries, with poems and jingles in between, sometimes even implementing themes discussed in therapy.
He aspires for listeners to find peace and healing through his rhythm and lyricism.
“I hope, maybe, that people find their purpose for the time they need to hear my kind of music.” says Love.
“Where She Creep” is not the only musical endeavor of the singer, with him also being the lead vocalist of the psychedelic R&B band “Chill Place.”
The band features two other members: Joel Harris, also known as “Hallow Shaman,” and Pranav Surendran, also known as “Prod. by P.” Before releasing their debut album “Lights in the Loft” in 2023, the band taught music through the Ypsilanti-based organization Youth Arts Alliance.
“[We] have been performing and experimenting with sound combinations ever since,” says Love.
Love conveys gratitude toward the support and opportunities he received from those in the Ypsilanti community, including the Amplify Fellowship. He also expresses gratitude for the rewarding aspect of music, noting its healing effects on his spirit.
“Creating is one of the most exciting things you can do,” said Love.
Looking ahead, he aims to shed light on the R&B genre within his community. One of his current projects is a show series that will help amplify the voices of his fellow local R&B artists.
“It’s becoming a fun, collaborative project, and it’s community building, and it’s putting a stamp out here on R&B being more prominent in the culture,” Love said. While the project is in the works, individuals can listen to Kyle Love’s music on all streaming platforms under “Where She Creep” and “Chill Place.”
