LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION mourning the death of legendary performer, Johnny
Kemp, a Bahamian Rhythm and Blues singer and gifted songwriter

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to honor and pay just
tribute to those musical talents whose commitment and creative abilities
contributed to the entertainment and cultural enrichment of their commu-
nity and the entire State of New York; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is moved to mourn the death of legend-
ary performer, Johnny Kemp, a Bahamian Rhythm and Blues singer and gift-
ed songwriter, who died on Thursday, April 16, 2015, at the age of 55;
and
WHEREAS, Johnny Kemp was born in the Bahamas on August 2, 1959, and at
the young age of 13, he began singing in nightclubs; 20 years later, he
moved to Harlem, New York, where he worked as a session vocalist and
songwriter before landing a solo contract with Columbia Records; and
WHEREAS, Johnny Kemp's self-titled debut album came out in 1986, and
he scored a minor hit with "Just Another Lover"; however, true success
came the following year, with the release of his SECRETS OF FLYING
album, which contained a pair of Top 40 hits on the United States Bill-
board Rhythm and Blues Chart, "Dancin' with Myself" and "Just Got Paid",
the latter hitting No. 1; and
WHEREAS, Johnny Kemp is survived by his loving wife, Deirdre Fisher-
Kemp, and his two devoted sons; and
WHEREAS, The history, the heritage, and the lives of the people of all
countries and all cultures are portrayed in their music and dance; the
art and act of sharing them enriches us altogether; and
WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to remember the
life and accomplishments of legendary musician, Johnny Kemp, whose
illustrious career will forever live in the hearts of many and continue
to inspire generations to come; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of legendary performer, Johnny Kemp, a Bahamian Rhythm
and Blues singer and gifted songwriter; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the family of Johnny Kemp.