**Johnny Kemp** was a Bahamian singer, songwriter, and producer best known for his infectious 1988 hit **“Just Got Paid.”** Born on August 2, 1959, in Nassau, Bahamas, Kemp began his musical journey at an early age, performing in nightclubs by the time he was a teenager. He moved to Harlem, New York, in the late 1970s, where he pursued his career in music and gradually made a name for himself in the vibrant R\&B and dance music scene of the 1980s. His smooth vocals and knack for catchy melodies helped him stand out in a competitive industry.

Kemp’s breakout came with his sophomore album ***Secrets of Flying***, released in 1987, which included the chart-topping single **“Just Got Paid.”** The song became an anthem for weekend partygoers, celebrating payday with an upbeat, synth-driven groove that embodied the joy of freedom and fun. It reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Black Singles chart and peaked at No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song remains a staple of ‘80s dance playlists and continues to be sampled and celebrated in contemporary music.

In addition to his solo work, Johnny Kemp contributed as a songwriter and background vocalist for various artists, showcasing his versatility and behind-the-scenes talent. Despite not replicating the massive success of “Just Got Paid,” Kemp remained respected in R\&B circles and performed at numerous old-school and retro music festivals throughout the 2000s.

Tragically, Johnny Kemp passed away on April 16, 2015, at the age of 55. He died in Montego Bay, Jamaica, where he was scheduled to perform on the "Tom Joyner Foundation Fantastic Voyage" cruise. Though his life was cut short, Kemp’s legacy lives on through his music—especially “Just Got Paid,” a timeless celebration of life, music, and joy.