Matter of Time

Song Meaning

Kem's "Matter of Time" isn't just a smooth R&B groove; it's a meditation on self-acceptance and the often-circuitous path to inner peace. The song orbits around the narrator's relationship with a brother held up as a paragon of virtue – "tall, thin, and fine / The head of his class" – a figure seemingly blessed with inherent goodness. But the lyrics subtly undermine this ideal, hinting that even this "perfect" brother spent his life "chasin' heaven / But never seemed to find it." This contrast forms the emotional core of the song, suggesting that outward appearances and societal approval don't necessarily equate to inner fulfillment. The true "heaven," Kem implies, "resides right here / On the inside." The recurring line, "It's a matter of time," functions as both a mantra and a gentle reassurance. It acknowledges the struggle – the feeling of not measuring up, of being lost or broken – but reframes it as a temporary state. The pre-chorus, with its observation that "people go from bad to good in just / The blink of an eye," reinforces this message of hope and potential for transformation. It's not about striving for an unattainable ideal of perfection, but about recognizing the inherent capacity for change within oneself. The reference to taking trips downtown to the mission reminds listeners that even in the face of life's hardest moments, there are still lessons to be learned. Ultimately, "Matter of Time" offers a psychologically astute perspective on self-improvement. It sidesteps the toxic positivity often found in self-help mantras, acknowledging the reality of hardship and the sometimes-glacial pace of personal growth. Instead, Kem offers a more nuanced and compassionate message: change is possible, healing is attainable, and even in the darkest of times, there's always the potential for a brighter future. It's a song for anyone who's ever felt inadequate, lost, or simply not "there" yet, a reminder that personal evolution is a journey, not a destination, and that sometimes, all it takes is a little time.