Keni Burke is an American soul, R&B, and funk singer, songwriter, producer, and musician, whose influence and contributions to the music world span several decades. Born Kenneth M. Burke on September 28, 1953, in Chicago, Illinois, he initially gained recognition in the late 1960s and early 1970s as a member of the family group The Five Stairsteps, best known for their hit "O-o-h Child." The group was sometimes dubbed "The First Family of Soul," a testament to their impact on the genre.

After the Five Stairsteps dissolved, Keni Burke pursued a solo career, releasing his self-titled debut album in 1977. His 1982 release, "Changes," featured the now-classic track "Risin' to the Top," which has been sampled extensively in the hip hop community and remains a staple in R&B music. Despite not being a mainstream household name, Burke's bass playing, production skills, and songwriting have made him highly respected among musicians and connoisseurs of soul and R&B. His later works, such as "You're the Best (Expanded)," "Changes (Expanded Edition)," "So Real," "Nothin' But Love," and the 2022 remaster of his debut, showcase his enduring talent and the continued evolution of his sound. Keni Burke’s unmistakable groove and musicality have cemented his status as an enduring figure in the soul music pantheon.

Genres

Post-disco

Post-disco Soul

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Al Green

Barry White

Chaka Khan

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Bobby Caldwell

Latest Release

You're the Best (Expanded)

Keni Burke

Album - 13 Tracks - Released June 27, 2014