Kevon Williams on 'Pretty Girls Love R&B' Debut EP: Interview
The Woodland singer also discusses his journey to the spotlight and navigating R&B on his own terms.
Over the years, male R&B has gone from lyrics about the ups and downs of love to bragging about how many one-night stands an artist can rack up without accountability - not Kevon Williams.
His debut EP, Pretty Girls Love R&B, reminds listeners genuine connection still exists in a culture infatuated with and settling for situationships.
With its smooth blend of vulnerability and timeless grooves, the project not only captures his artistry, but also highlights a deeper mission: bringing emotional depth and authenticity back to the genre. His journey, shaped by a childhood rooted in music and later singing background for uncle MC Hammer, is as inspiring as it is compelling.
From growing up in Woodland, California to no longer shying away from the impact he wants as an artist, Kevon Williams shares it all in this in-depth conversation.
In a lot of ways, growing up on tour with your dad and uncle was a backstage pass to what life in the industry looks like. What lessons from those experiences still stick with you today?
“Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready”—that’s a mantra my dad instilled in me, and it’s one I live by. It taught me the importance of preparation and staying hungry. It’s the reason I put in the hours of rehearsal and always aim to give the best performance I can.
They were the ones who pushed me to take the stage for the first time, even when I was scared. Their belief in me helped me push past my fears and doubts.
Brandy, Michael Jackson, and Usher are the main artists that have helped shape your sound. How did you first get introduced to their music, and what about their artistry connects with you the most?
These artists have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. They were staples in my household—my family’s favorites. Growing up with their music, I learned what it means to not only sing, but to truly perform. They always gave you something raw, something real.
How has being from Woodland, California influenced the artist you are today? Does it show up in your music in ways we might not expect?
Woodland, California is a small town. Growing up there, I learned the value of community, authenticity, and staying true to yourself. That small-town influence shows up in my music in the way I connect with my audience. There’s a certain rawness and honesty in my sound that comes from those roots.
How do you balance the timeless R&B vibes you fell in love with and today’s modern sounds while staying true to yourself?
It’s about being authentic. The balance comes naturally because it's not something I consciously think about—it's just who I am. I grew up with timeless music, but I also live in the present. That blend of influences—old and new—shapes how I create.
“Pretty Girls Love R&B” is of course the full name of your debut EP, but from what I’ve seen, it also represents the vision you have for yourself as an artist. How did that phrase come about and what does it mean to you?
I’ve noticed R&B creates a unique vibe that draws people in, especially those who feel things deeply. “Pretty Girls Love R&B” speaks to the idea music should give you the space to feel emotions without judgment, and it’s a space I’ve found that many women, in particular, gravitate toward.
The project shows us different sides of you while still staying true to what fans love most. What was the creative process like and how did you decide on those three tracks?
The process was about capturing different aspects of who I am—vulnerable, reflective, and hopeful. I chose these tracks because each one represents a piece of my journey. The music felt like a natural progression of my growth as an artist, so I focused on what I wanted to say, rather than what might be expected.
“Let Go” is such a standout track—what’s the story behind it? Did you know from the start it was going to be the heart of the EP?
I didn’t know it would be the heart of the EP, but I did know it was something special. As soon as I heard the beat, the idea just clicked. It came from a place of healing and growth, and I wanted to make it an anthem for letting go—not just for me, but for anyone who’s going through that process of releasing something that no longer serves them.
Every project comes with its challenges. Tell me the most difficult obstacle that came up while putting this EP together.
The toughest part is always getting out of my own way. Sometimes I second-guess myself or worry too much about how my music will be received, but I had to remind myself the most important thing is to create music I love and believe in. The feedback from others matters, but my own connection to the music is what truly drives me.
Where do you see yourself in this new era of R&B and what makes your music stand out?
I see myself contributing where vulnerability and emotional depth are at the forefront—especially as a man in the industry. It’s easy to talk about partying or women, but I want to normalize talking about feelings, mental health, and personal growth. That’s what sets my music apart: it’s not just about the vibe, it’s about making room for real conversations.
I think there’s still emotional depth in R&B, but sometimes it gets lost in the pursuit of commercial success or trends. Artists are doing their best, but real emotional intelligence is rare. That’s what I want to bring back—depth, transparency, and emotional intelligence that speaks to people on a real level.
What’s your definition of success as an R&B artist, and how do you see yourself shaping the future of the genre?
To me, success is about the impact my music has on the world. I want to connect with people, give them something real, and leave a legacy that lasts. I see myself shaping R&B by encouraging authenticity and vulnerability, particularly for men, in a genre that’s been predominantly about love, heartbreak, and party anthems.
Between writing, recording, and performing, you’re always booked and busy! How do you stay in touch with Kevon the person so you don’t lose him?
I stay grounded by staying connected to my purpose. It’s easy to get lost in the noise and distractions, but remembering why I started keeps me focused. I’m here because I love music, and that’s what I keep coming back to when things start to feel overwhelming.
Fast forward 10 years: What’s the one thing you hope people remember most about Kevon Williams?
I hope people remember the passion I brought to the stage. I want to be known as an artist who left everything on the stage, someone who gave his all every single time.
When people listen to your music, especially songs from PGLR, what do you hope they feel?
I hope they feel hope. Hope for love, self-love, and growth. Life can be tough, and sometimes it feels like love is slipping away, but I want this project to remind listeners love is still very much real and attainable, no matter where they’re at in their journey.
Stream Kevon Williams’ Pretty Girls Love R&B EP below.
Kevon’s Publicist and Media Inquiry Contact:
Desirae L. Benson | DesiraeBBB@gmail.com | DesiraeBenson.com