Kevin Ross’ ‘Love in the Middle’ Goes No. 1 on Billboard’s Adult R&B Airplay Chart
Kevin Ross‘ latest single “Love in the Middle” secures the top spot on the Billboard Adult R&B Airplay chart dated July 12.
The Louis York-produced hit climbs from No. 4 to No. 1 in its 20th week on the chart. It marks Ross’ second visit to the peak position since 2016’s “Long Song Away,” released under Motown Records.
“Eight years ago, I scored my first number one on this chart. A lot of things have changed since then. Artists and trends have come and gone. Honestly, I can’t credit talent to this win, but God engineering and a great team,” says Ross.
“Love in the Middle” was the first single from Ross’ EP, Love Uptempo, Vol. 1. The project was released April 4 via Ross’ independent label Art Society Music Group, in partnership with EMPIRE.
In May, “Love in the Middle” became Ross’ fifth top 10 hit on the Adult R&B Airplay chart after debuting in March. His previous entries included “Looking For Love” (No. 9 peak in 2021), “Sweet Release” (No. 8 peak in 2022) and “Look My Way” (No. 8 peak in 2023).
It’s also worth noting “Love in the Middle” is No. 1 at R&B radio, which is monitored by MediaBase. The romantic track received 1,796 spins (up 140 from the previous week), generating an audience impression of 6.1 million.
Regarding “Love in the Middle,” Ross told Rated R&B, “It was an absolute pleasure working on with Claude Kelly and Chuck Harmony [of Louis York]. We wrote, produced, and recorded it in Nashville. It’s something about that city that sparks creative freedom. I believe it’s the perfect time for that record.”
Kelly added, “It’s crazy how easy it was to work with Kevin in the studio. The chemistry was just there immediately. He knows what he’s doing, he knows his voice, he knows R&B music in a real way. ‘Love In The Middle’ is the magic you get when three friends lock-in to make a timeless love song that the people can still dance and sing along to forever.”
Harmony shared, “It’s always a pleasure when the artist knows who they are and what direction they want to go in musically. Kevin knew exactly where he wanted to go, so we explored and created something unforgettable. ‘Love In The Middle’ is a special one.”
Ross is keeping the momentum going with upcoming tour stops in Detroit, Oklahoma City, Boston and New York. He also is gearing up for Love Uptempo, Vol. 2, which is expected to arrive soon.