Kenny Thomas: Living in the Moment with Unstoppable
by Jay Stansfield
It’s a sweltering day in mid-August when I connect with Kenny Thomas on Zoom. The UK soul star, who scored three Top 10 hits and ten Top 40 singles in the 90s, hasn’t released a studio album in 15 years. Now, with Unstoppable, he’s back and more present than ever.
From the moment his camera flickers on, there’s an ease about him. Behind him, a Michael Jackson placard hints at the meticulous production standards he values, and as we talk through the record it’s clear those standards have shaped every track.
Recording alone
One of the first things Kenny shares is how different this album felt to make. Instead of being in a busy studio surrounded by producers and bandmates, he recorded his vocals entirely alone. It was a choice inspired partly by George Michael, who once told him that solitude helped capture his truest performances.
That shift is audible. The intimacy of Kenny’s vocals draws you into lyrics that feel more personal than ever before. Unstoppable has the polish of his 90s classics but with a new layer of vulnerability that only time and experience can bring.
Navigating a new era
Kenny may be a legacy artist in some eyes, but that doesn’t mean the modern industry is easy to navigate. The good news is he’s had strong support from the likes of Zoe Ball and DJ Spoony at Radio 2, with airplay helping introduce his music to fresh ears. He talks openly about wanting to focus more on live work going forward and hints at another album already in the pipeline.
Living in the now
Perhaps the strongest theme of our chat is Kenny’s new approach to life. “In the past I lived too much in the past, then too much in the future,” he reflects. “Now it’s about being in the moment.” That shift isn’t just a mindset – it’s woven into the fabric of Unstoppable.
For younger artists, it’s advice worth holding onto: success comes not from chasing every trend but from being fully present with the music you’re making right now.
Photo by Will Hutch
Collaborations and standouts
Kenny is quick to credit Swedish producer Opolopo for the punchy, dancefloor-ready sound that runs through the record. The partnership has given the songs a fresh energy while retaining his signature soulful delivery. DJs have already responded positively, and it’s easy to hear why.
When asked about highlights, Kenny singles out “Walking Man,” written by his wife — a tender choice that adds another layer of romance to the album. Fans will also notice a new, gentler reimagining of his 1991 hit “Thinking About Your Love.” It’s a bold move to touch a track considered untouchable by many, but the result is a standout moment that could easily find a new audience on TikTok, much like the resurgent successes of Kate Bush and Fleetwood Mac.
And then there’s Kim Wilde. Kenny lights up when talking about finally working with her, after first connecting with her brother Ricky back in 2000. “It was long overdue,” he grins and the joy in his voice makes it clear this is a collaboration worth celebrating.
Unstoppable indeed
As our conversation ends, what lingers most is Kenny’s calm determination. He describes Unstoppable as his best album yet, not because of chart positions or pressure, but because he made it with no expectations, simply living in the moment.
For fans old and new, that mindset makes Unstoppable not just a return, but a refreshing reminder that soul music, like the man himself, is timeless.
Unstoppable is out now. Follow Kenny at instagram.com/kennythomasofficial.
THE UNSTOPPABLE TOUR:
THE VERY BEST OF KENNY THOMAS 2026
HIS BIGGEST EVER UK TOUR & HEADLINE SHOW
UK Tour Dates 2026:
19 March Gateshead Glasshouse
20 March Manchester Apollo
21 March London Eventim Apollo
25 March Southend Cliffs Pavilion
26 March Birmingham Symphony Hall
Tickets On-Sale Now
via KennyThomasMusic.com
