Kevin Elijah Burgess, born on July 21, 1988, in St. Petersburg, Florida, is widely known by his stage name KB. As an American Christian hip-hop artist and music executive, KB’s journey from his early life in a military family to becoming a prominent figure in Christian hip-hop is marked by resilience, faith, and musical innovation.
Growing up, KB experienced a diverse range of environments due to his family’s military background. His early years were challenging; after his parents’ divorce when he was eight, he moved back with his mother to a tough neighborhood in St. Petersburg. Despite excelling academically and having opportunities for a college education, KB struggled with severe depression during his teenage years. His battle with mental health led him to experiment with drugs, which negatively impacted his school performance and deepened his struggles, even leading him to contemplate suicide.
KB’s life took a transformative turn after high school when he enrolled in Bible college. It was there that he befriended a group of Christian rappers and co-founded the hip-hop group His Glory Alone (HGA). HGA’s unique blend of faith and hip-hop quickly garnered attention, catching the eye of influential figures in the Christian music scene. Notably, Lecrae, Ben Washer, and DJ Official recognized their talent, leading to collaborations and exposure on major platforms.
In 2010, KB signed a solo artist contract with Reach Records, a significant step that would define his career. His debut mixtape, “Who Is KB?,” was released in 2011 and showcased his potential in the Christian hip-hop genre. His subsequent albums—”Weight & Glory” (2012), “The 100 EP” (2014), “Tomorrow We Live” (2015), and “Today We Rebel” (2017)—further established his reputation. Each release demonstrated KB’s lyrical prowess and ability to merge faith-based messages with compelling beats. Notable tracks like “Hello,” “Zone Out,” and “Go Off” highlighted his growing influence and resonated with audiences.
KB’s career with Reach Records saw him become a prominent member of the label’s collective 116 Clique. His music not only climbed the charts but also deeply connected with listeners, blending faith with relatable themes in a way that set him apart. The albums produced several chart-topping singles, including “Weight & Glory,” “100,” “Today We Rebel,” and “No More,” all of which solidified his position in the Christian music industry.
In 2020, KB made a pivotal career move by leaving Reach Records and signing with Essential Sound, a Sony Music imprint. His fourth studio album, “His Glory Alone,” released in September 2020, marked a new chapter in his career. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard Christian Albums chart, underscoring his continued relevance and impact in the genre. The release was followed by the album “His Glory Alone II” in August 2023, which further expanded his musical repertoire and featured collaborations with artists like nobigdyl., Brandon Lake, and more.
KB’s influence extends beyond his musical achievements. He is a respected figure in the Christian community, known for using his platform to inspire and uplift others. His commitment to his faith and his dedication to creating authentic, faith-driven music have earned him a loyal fanbase and a lasting legacy. Through his journey, KB has exemplified the power of faith, talent, and perseverance, continuing to inspire listeners with his message and music.