Kaedi Philo Embraces Her Jamaican Roots in Reggae Debut "Seasons Changing"

Bronx-based artist Kaedi Philo honors her Jamaican parents' heritage with the release of her debut reggae single, "Seasons Changing," accompanied by a music video shot in Jamaica. “Music is my safe haven and a way of healing myself,” she shared.

Bronx-based artist Kaedi Philo

Bronx-based artist Kaedi Philo embraces her Jamaican roots in her debut reggae single, "Seasons Changing," produced by 29 West Productions and featuring contributions from Bobo Bell, Fatta Marshall, and Shvne.

Originally from the Bronx, New York, Kaedi’s Jamaican heritage runs deep. Her father, a Rastafarian, hails from Hanover, while her mother is from Westmoreland, and much of her extended family still resides on the island. “Music is my safe haven and a way of healing myself, and I hope that everyone who listens to my music is able to feel that as well—able to move through whatever mountains and valleys they have in their lives,” she shared.

Before launching her professional career, Kaedi honed her vocal abilities through performances in church and as part of her school choir. She is also a member of the acclaimed vocal group Citizen Queen, widely recognized for their standout vocal arrangements and dynamic covers.

Kaedi grew up listening to a wide range of genres, but her musical foundation was rooted in reggae. She cites legends like Bob Marley, Burning Spear, and Beres Hammond as early influences that shaped her love for music. At the same time, artists such as Sade, Nina Simone, Tracy Chapman, and Anita Baker played a key role in helping her hone her sound as an alto singer.

“Hip hop, R&B, soul, house music, electronic music, and too many other genres to name contribute to the way I hear music and shape the language of how it makes me feel,” she explained. “Although I’m on a reggae path right now in my music, these inspirations are embedded in my sound to the point where I cannot describe my overall sound by genre, but by feeling—honest, open, and undeniable.”

Speaking about shooting the video in Jamaica, Kaedi shared, “It was such a cool and fun experience! It was my first time filming a music video there, so it was a blessing to have my debut captured with such care. From the drone shots of the lush green hills to scenes of people simply living their lives, we were able to capture an essence of Kingston—and Jamaica in general—that I really wanted the audience to feel through their screens. I pray we accomplished that. Blessings to everyone on the team who was involved.”

"This next chapter of my music is deeply personal, and I’m excited to share that part of my identity with you all."

With the support of a family that nurtured her early passion for the arts, Kaedi now steps into the spotlight to expand her creative reach and share her personal artistry with the world. “I’m promoting this single and letting it marinate a bit—but there’s more coming from the vault,” she shared. “This next chapter of my music is deeply personal, as it helps me connect with my heritage, and I’m excited to share that part of my identity with you all.”