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Share My Life: A Journey of Love, Faith and Redemption
Grammy Award–nominated artist Kem shares his life in this revealing and remarkable memoir tracing his transformative journey from homelessness to gold-selling artist.
Known for his smooth affecting crooning and dapper style, Kem’s journey to the stage is nothing short of inspiring. In Share My Life , Kem goes back to the very beginning before his time to introduce his grandmother who worked as a sharecropper in the South and had thirteen children. As Kem’s family rises from the sharecropping and ultimately lands in Detroit, there is an unspoken mantra of “hard things are better left unsaid,” which has devastating consequences down the line. And so, Kem grows up in the midst of an impenetrable silence. His mother is never without a beer in her hand, and his relationship with his father is oddly tense. Emotionally starved, Kem internalizes harmful feelings, eventually spiraling to drug use in his search for relief.
At nineteen, Kem is homeless, roaming the cold Detroit streets. In the overly bright AA halls, Kem comes across men like himself verbalizing their feelings. The meetings helped him discover his own voice, using music as an outlet that has since touched millions.
In Share My Life , Kem chronicles his incredible journey of self-discovery. The young boy who struggled with feelings of worthlessness becomes a man willing to put everything on the line for his dream.
Known for his smooth affecting crooning and dapper style, Kem’s journey to the stage is nothing short of inspiring. In Share My Life , Kem goes back to the very beginning before his time to introduce his grandmother who worked as a sharecropper in the South and had thirteen children. As Kem’s family rises from the sharecropping and ultimately lands in Detroit, there is an unspoken mantra of “hard things are better left unsaid,” which has devastating consequences down the line. And so, Kem grows up in the midst of an impenetrable silence. His mother is never without a beer in her hand, and his relationship with his father is oddly tense. Emotionally starved, Kem internalizes harmful feelings, eventually spiraling to drug use in his search for relief.
At nineteen, Kem is homeless, roaming the cold Detroit streets. In the overly bright AA halls, Kem comes across men like himself verbalizing their feelings. The meetings helped him discover his own voice, using music as an outlet that has since touched millions.
In Share My Life , Kem chronicles his incredible journey of self-discovery. The young boy who struggled with feelings of worthlessness becomes a man willing to put everything on the line for his dream.
272 pages, Hardcover
Published April 4, 2023
30 people are currently reading
201 people want to read
About the author
Kem
8 books5 followersWhen Kem was young he liked bourbon, motorcycles and surfing.
Now that he's older his tastes have evolved and he now enjoys EXPENSIVE bourbon, 4WD Utility Vehicles that have air conditioning and cup holders, and surfing.... when it's not cold.
He is the proud father of 2 naughty children of the adult human variety who are wonderful but deserve their own stories so will not be talked about any more here.
He collects loud shirts, enjoys 'Talk Like A Pirate Day', looks forward to going to the cinema because movie snacks don't count as junk food in his diet (there ARE no healthy options at the cinema!) and would probably be completely lost but he keeps handing himself in to lost property departments at train stations.
With a lack of modesty, an unawareness of political correctness and even poorer sense of humour he is the last person you want to invite to dinner
Chronic Sufferer of Peter Pan complex
the tower.
... in the beginning there was a beggar ... he was never quite accustomed to his poverty ... he was lost … always escaping ... he had lived in solitude for a long long time ... he knew that one day he would die alone ... he was a little frightened ... he met a juggler ... in her he saw a future ... a thing he had not contemplated for himself ... she was his dream … a vision of crystalline perfection ... with her he saw magical things ...
In a long ago forest , not so far away, a raggedy man once walked. He was neither young nor old. He walked amongst the shaded groves and glades, shoulders slumped, eyes downcast. He was simple, dusty and empty. So empty. Except of course for his dreams and memories.
All at once he came to a clearing. In the centre of the clearing stood a tower. At the very top of the tower was a window, in which he saw a woman idly tossing some balls in the air. There was a wistful melancholy about her attitude, which seemed so familiar to him that it did not pass un-noticed.
As he watched, he saw her look forlornly to the ground, and as he followed her gaze, he saw a small brightly coloured object on the ground. He guessed it to be one of the balls she was so distractedly tossing about. He also noted a particularly murky and ominous looking moat surrounding the tower.
He leaned in the shade of a large tree and watched. The water in the moat was not still.
A large and handsome knight appeared on a sleek charger. He saw the woman in the tower and, being a knight, knew he had to rescue her. The beggar man saw her thrill at the sight of this would-be rescuer, and clap her hands in glee.
The knight rode up to the beggar man and imperiously handed him the reins. He commanded him to feed and tend to the horse, while the knight was doing knightly things. The ragged man began to tell of the unstill water, but was silenced by the powerful knight.
He shrugged his shoulders and watched.
No sooner had the knight entered the moat than a commotion erupted, dragons and moat monsters leapt from the water and devoured the knight in an instant. The water swirled, and stilled, broken only by occasional ripples.
The raggedy man looked from the moat, to the woman, to the sleek horse and smiled. He led the horse to a small clearing and secured it. A horse was worth a lot in some places. He returned to his vantage point under the tree and continued his study of the tower, and in particular the small brightly coloured ball at its base.
As he stood watching, a succession of imperious knights interrupted his thoughts. They each in turn commanded the raggedy beggar man to tend their fine steeds, they each in turn ignored his mumbling and gesturing about unstill waters, and they were each in turn devoured by the moat monsters and dragons. By the end of three days the man had a handsome herd of horses, if four horses constitutes a herd.
Now that he's older his tastes have evolved and he now enjoys EXPENSIVE bourbon, 4WD Utility Vehicles that have air conditioning and cup holders, and surfing.... when it's not cold.
He is the proud father of 2 naughty children of the adult human variety who are wonderful but deserve their own stories so will not be talked about any more here.
He collects loud shirts, enjoys 'Talk Like A Pirate Day', looks forward to going to the cinema because movie snacks don't count as junk food in his diet (there ARE no healthy options at the cinema!) and would probably be completely lost but he keeps handing himself in to lost property departments at train stations.
With a lack of modesty, an unawareness of political correctness and even poorer sense of humour he is the last person you want to invite to dinner
Chronic Sufferer of Peter Pan complex
the tower.
... in the beginning there was a beggar ... he was never quite accustomed to his poverty ... he was lost … always escaping ... he had lived in solitude for a long long time ... he knew that one day he would die alone ... he was a little frightened ... he met a juggler ... in her he saw a future ... a thing he had not contemplated for himself ... she was his dream … a vision of crystalline perfection ... with her he saw magical things ...
In a long ago forest , not so far away, a raggedy man once walked. He was neither young nor old. He walked amongst the shaded groves and glades, shoulders slumped, eyes downcast. He was simple, dusty and empty. So empty. Except of course for his dreams and memories.
All at once he came to a clearing. In the centre of the clearing stood a tower. At the very top of the tower was a window, in which he saw a woman idly tossing some balls in the air. There was a wistful melancholy about her attitude, which seemed so familiar to him that it did not pass un-noticed.
As he watched, he saw her look forlornly to the ground, and as he followed her gaze, he saw a small brightly coloured object on the ground. He guessed it to be one of the balls she was so distractedly tossing about. He also noted a particularly murky and ominous looking moat surrounding the tower.
He leaned in the shade of a large tree and watched. The water in the moat was not still.
A large and handsome knight appeared on a sleek charger. He saw the woman in the tower and, being a knight, knew he had to rescue her. The beggar man saw her thrill at the sight of this would-be rescuer, and clap her hands in glee.
The knight rode up to the beggar man and imperiously handed him the reins. He commanded him to feed and tend to the horse, while the knight was doing knightly things. The ragged man began to tell of the unstill water, but was silenced by the powerful knight.
He shrugged his shoulders and watched.
No sooner had the knight entered the moat than a commotion erupted, dragons and moat monsters leapt from the water and devoured the knight in an instant. The water swirled, and stilled, broken only by occasional ripples.
The raggedy man looked from the moat, to the woman, to the sleek horse and smiled. He led the horse to a small clearing and secured it. A horse was worth a lot in some places. He returned to his vantage point under the tree and continued his study of the tower, and in particular the small brightly coloured ball at its base.
As he stood watching, a succession of imperious knights interrupted his thoughts. They each in turn commanded the raggedy beggar man to tend their fine steeds, they each in turn ignored his mumbling and gesturing about unstill waters, and they were each in turn devoured by the moat monsters and dragons. By the end of three days the man had a handsome herd of horses, if four horses constitutes a herd.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
February 20, 2023
While being a huge fan of Kem's music, I had heard briefly about his story & struggles in life. However, I had no idea about the gravity of his struggles. By the grace of God, Ken was able to turn his life around & his music guided him to a better place. It is astounding that such beautiful music was born out of such pain & despair. Having read this book, I appreciate his music even more. Kim, thank you so much for sharing your life!! May your words be a blessing to others.
A special thank you to Netgalley, the publisher & Ken for the opportunity to read this ARC.
A special thank you to Netgalley, the publisher & Ken for the opportunity to read this ARC.
November 10, 2023
Honest and redemptive what a journey 😩
April 9, 2023
I did not know who Kem was, and happened to see him last week on Good Morning America promoting his new book. I enjoyed listening to him talk as well as perform. I really love learning about a person’s journey from where they were to where they are. Kem’s book was heartfelt and thought-provoking. I’d recommend this, as well as his music! Beautiful!
August 11, 2023
I was a youngn listening to Kem. Love his voice. You can tell g has a gentle spirit and disposition about him, and the book confirmed that, with reasons. His story is definitely one of redemption and hope.
April 21, 2023
In Share My Life: A Journey of Love, Faith and Redemption, Kem bares his soul. From homelessness to Grammy Award-nominated artist, this is his revealing life story. He starts from the very beginning introducing his grandmother, a sharecropper in the South with thirteen children. The family ultimately ends up in Detroit.
His mom keeps a beer in hand and his relationship with dad isn't the greatest. As a result, Kem internalizes feelings that lead to drug use as self-medication. His addiction, love life, children and self-discovery are described in detail. True to the title, Kem shares his WHOLE life.
I don't know if this was Kem's attempt, but I listen to his lyrics so much differently now. Every song has a meaning. Every melody holds weight. Interactions with his mentors are told along with his soothing crooning singing style. Share My Life: A Journey of Love, Faith and Redemption is a literary version of "Behind the Music."
It is the best memoir I've read so far in 2023. His transformative journey is inspiring. Being from Detroit as well, I knew a little about his life but not to the extent he shares. Nothing is held back. Full transparency which takes bravery, talent and a level of trust in fans.
Happy Belated Pub Day, Kem! Share My Life is now available.
Disclaimer: An advance copy was received directly from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own and would be the same if I spent my hard-earned coins. ~LiteraryMarie
His mom keeps a beer in hand and his relationship with dad isn't the greatest. As a result, Kem internalizes feelings that lead to drug use as self-medication. His addiction, love life, children and self-discovery are described in detail. True to the title, Kem shares his WHOLE life.
I don't know if this was Kem's attempt, but I listen to his lyrics so much differently now. Every song has a meaning. Every melody holds weight. Interactions with his mentors are told along with his soothing crooning singing style. Share My Life: A Journey of Love, Faith and Redemption is a literary version of "Behind the Music."
It is the best memoir I've read so far in 2023. His transformative journey is inspiring. Being from Detroit as well, I knew a little about his life but not to the extent he shares. Nothing is held back. Full transparency which takes bravery, talent and a level of trust in fans.
Happy Belated Pub Day, Kem! Share My Life is now available.
Disclaimer: An advance copy was received directly from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own and would be the same if I spent my hard-earned coins. ~LiteraryMarie
July 8, 2023
I am a fan of Kem the musician and not the author! While reading this autobiography it felt very safe. While he told of tales known to the public his only glimpse of him personally was his faith and therapy. This book felt very safe and protective of his already stellar image. He speaks of his wrongs and trials as a glaze over a troubled life. As an avid reader, this book didn’t have the authenticity of a true written biography. Still a fan of his music but not of this scapegoated written façade autobiography.
July 15, 2023
I am a huge fan of Kem. I also can appreciate the humility and transparency it took to write this book. For that the book got two stars. I didn’t love the book though. The writing wasn’t very good, felt disjointed. The disappointment continued for choosing audible to hear the book. Kim’s soft and smooth voice that makes him such a songster also makes his narration monotone and forced. Where he had a lot of opportunities to integrate his songs, he merely spoke about their importance.
August 23, 2023
Humble beginnings often involve decisions made long before the current results can be displayed.
That’s the case with Kim “Kem” Owens.
From his upbringings in Tennessee, the sources of his stability and decisions made as he relocated to Michigan, Kem opens his vulnerability up and allows us inside his past, what would be his present and future. His travails are no different than some of us — drinking, drugs, sex, poor choices, yet, his faith was the anchor that lifted him through each trail by fire. He kept his eyes up, even when others looked down upon him. Second to none, his passion for songwriting; the topics he broached spoke volumes for his experiences and many others as it was discovered.
The fact he would not compromise his faith while performing speaks power to the soul he bears. It renders continuity in his beliefs to help others through the gift of his past and the music he represents with dignity. You can jam to it around your children and not be ashamed or worry about lyrics that are disrespectful being repeated. It shows honor for using his second chance to be better than what he saw, heard or experienced.
I came away from this book feeling encouraged; we all have struggles- refuse to surrender to them, stay in prayer, get up focus, get rid of your distractions, and win!
Highly recommended!
5 stars
Loretta R. Walls
CEO, Nu Cherte Publishing
That’s the case with Kim “Kem” Owens.
From his upbringings in Tennessee, the sources of his stability and decisions made as he relocated to Michigan, Kem opens his vulnerability up and allows us inside his past, what would be his present and future. His travails are no different than some of us — drinking, drugs, sex, poor choices, yet, his faith was the anchor that lifted him through each trail by fire. He kept his eyes up, even when others looked down upon him. Second to none, his passion for songwriting; the topics he broached spoke volumes for his experiences and many others as it was discovered.
The fact he would not compromise his faith while performing speaks power to the soul he bears. It renders continuity in his beliefs to help others through the gift of his past and the music he represents with dignity. You can jam to it around your children and not be ashamed or worry about lyrics that are disrespectful being repeated. It shows honor for using his second chance to be better than what he saw, heard or experienced.
I came away from this book feeling encouraged; we all have struggles- refuse to surrender to them, stay in prayer, get up focus, get rid of your distractions, and win!
Highly recommended!
5 stars
Loretta R. Walls
CEO, Nu Cherte Publishing
July 20, 2023
First thing first 💯 just a wow read, I’m a huge fan of Kem. However, after reading his book, my opinion behind his overall success m is just a blessings in disguise. It was a very quick read and easy to follow along (i was just slow with my reading this month lol). But man, his story is truly inspiring and I have a lot more respect for him. One of my favorite songs : I can’t stop loving you ( lyrics were based from inner pain). When it comes to the title share my life, yes indeed (no holds back). I cried a little towards the end, caught off guard at some points, even felt some awkward moments 😂 Mostly, I learned how to analyze things within me as reading this book; the topic of being shy and coming from a silent family. Thank you Kem for this journey into your life. Must Read
March 29, 2024
Well.. that was an interesting read. I have been a fan of Kem's music for many years, and have seen him perform several times. I've heard him speak about how God has brought him through many tests in life, and this book details some of that and where his faith has come into play. The writing style is different, very to the point, not a lot of embellishment. I guess my reservation is not letting the information in the book affect how i feel about the music. He talks about his struggles with fidelity and identity issues. It's a bit of a mismatch with the music. I'm sure in time I'll get over it though. I guess the lesson is maybe don't read memoirs of your fave artists unless you want to learn juicy details and potentially change your image of them.
August 18, 2025
My mom is an Inkster native and always loved Kem. We had the pleasure of seeing one of his shows together in 2019. While I’ve enjoyed the collection of songs on the radio I’ve come to appreciate his full discography.
On to the book. I would have never guessed the soft voiced man from his music would have faced so much strife. It truly is story of redemption.
I appreciated his transparency in speaking on alcohol and substance abuse, infidelity, and dating interracially. There are some very raw moments that can open up lots of discussion. At times it did feel a little ghost written but overall a great listen.
On to the book. I would have never guessed the soft voiced man from his music would have faced so much strife. It truly is story of redemption.
I appreciated his transparency in speaking on alcohol and substance abuse, infidelity, and dating interracially. There are some very raw moments that can open up lots of discussion. At times it did feel a little ghost written but overall a great listen.
May 11, 2023
As an avid reader, I enjoyed this memoir, although at times it felt distant. Wondering if it’s due to the joint writing. I’ve been a fan of Kem’s music for years so reading this book was a no brainer. Kem’s I wanted to hear more on faith as I found those parts profound. I wanted to hear less of his wife’s story as I think it took a hit of space I wish would’ve included more of Kem’s faith perspective. I continuously respect his positive outlook and listening to his voice for 7 hours was a star in of itself!
January 6, 2024
Perseverance
Inspite of his struggles, he never gave up. Love love Kem's honesty and willingness to share his life struggles with the world. His faith in God and the 12 Steps program saved his life. The marriage ministry at my church is called Share My Life Marriage Ministry. Love his music and so glad I had the opportunity to attend his concert in my hometown of Meridian,MS. Blessing to you and your family......
Inspite of his struggles, he never gave up. Love love Kem's honesty and willingness to share his life struggles with the world. His faith in God and the 12 Steps program saved his life. The marriage ministry at my church is called Share My Life Marriage Ministry. Love his music and so glad I had the opportunity to attend his concert in my hometown of Meridian,MS. Blessing to you and your family......
April 4, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I learned a lot about the man behind the music that i've enjoyed over the years. This book gives you insight into his journey from childhood, through addiction, all the way to the man he has become while giving you insight into the inspiration behind his music. This was a great read.
October 28, 2023
Share My Life
Very good read for a very interesting person. KEM has proven that you can be down one day with nothing but your strive and sincere support can make a tremendous difference in your life and career. Even when you don’t think you are doing good work others do. We just never know how God work, we have to dig deep in our Faith and keep pushing.
Very good read for a very interesting person. KEM has proven that you can be down one day with nothing but your strive and sincere support can make a tremendous difference in your life and career. Even when you don’t think you are doing good work others do. We just never know how God work, we have to dig deep in our Faith and keep pushing.
November 22, 2024
Words that come to mind when thinking of Kem's music and memoir; cerebral…soulful…sensitive… and a little melancholy. ‘I Can’t stop loving you’ …’Love Calls’ …’Nobody’ …and ‘Promise to Love’ are my all time favorite Kem songs. Beautiful testimony. Highly recommended. Read hardback copyright 2023 edition.
February 3, 2025
Kem is one of my absolute favorite singers. I love his voice & his songs, but I was truly not ready for his life story. I did not expect it to be so sad & tragic! I am sooooooooo happy that he has "MADE" it in an industry that is so very competitive & difficult to succeed in. But, with a voice like his, there is absolutely no way he could not have...! You go Boyeeeee!
Read
May 9, 2023I think I heard about Ken’s book on the radio. I enjoy his music but knew little about his background. I enjoyed listening to him narrate. Promise to Love is one of my favorite songs and affects me every single time I listen to it.
January 17, 2025
Kem is one of my favorite artist. Enjoyed reading about his upbringing in Detroit and journey into artistry.
Appreciated his transparency and honesty about his strengths and struggles.
Highly recommend for those who love music.
4.3 stars
Appreciated his transparency and honesty about his strengths and struggles.
Highly recommend for those who love music.
4.3 stars
March 28, 2023
Love his music and great read about his life. All of Kems fans should read this book. Highly recommended
April 11, 2023
I appreciate learning more about this talented artist. Real, raw and relatable.
May 17, 2023
Good Read
Appreciate Kem sharing his story & faith, I was blessed to read about his journey. Great read, I highly recommend.
Appreciate Kem sharing his story & faith, I was blessed to read about his journey. Great read, I highly recommend.
June 10, 2023
A good read about his life story overcoming his harmful addictions and finding love.
June 21, 2023
I enjoyed listening to Kem talk in the audio book. I had no idea he had went through so many struggles and was still able to come out on top. A great listen/read.
July 27, 2023
I enjoyed it. There were some poignant moments. Anyone that has suffered from addiction or knows someone that has could use the inspiration this book provides.
August 8, 2023
I loved this book. The transparency of the author- Kem- about his trials, tribulations and resilience were refreshing. I listened to him reading the audio book and I was uplifted and inspired.
August 26, 2023
This was a good book. He went through some things through his life.
August 28, 2023
I have always been a KEM fan. I knew about his struggle and it serves to make him that much more lovable. I was not ready for the book to end and loved that music was part of it.
January 3, 2024
Really enjoyed this read. Kem has long been on of my favorite artists so learning a bit more about him was awesome. His faith in the Lord and life’s story is inspiring. I hope to meet him someday.
January 27, 2024
Listening to Kem tell his story was impactful. Kem is truly a spiritual light. I love his music and his story is worth the read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews