Kenya Edwards, the singer-songwriter known as Girlfriend, is from Sardis, Mississippi, and graduated from Rhodes College with a psychology degree. (Submitted)
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Kenya Edwards, the buzzing R&B singer known professionally as Girlfriend, released her album “Honey Water” in January.
Now based in Los Angeles, the Sardis, Mississippi-native and Rhodes College graduate has more than a million monthly Spotify listeners.
Girlfriend appeared on Cadillac Chronicles, the popular video series that features DJs, rappers and singers performing while in the passenger side of a convertible Cadillac in February.
Girlfriend was the BET Amplified Artist for March. Described as the network’s “music discovery program spotlighting the next generation of breakthrough talent,” the program includes the selected artist having a performance streamed on BET.com, BET’s YouTube and Facebook, and marketing rollout across BET’s digital and social programs.
BET Amplified launched in January 2020 and features a new artist monthly. For BET Amplified, BET looks for artists “who are doing something distinct, sonically, and culturally,” Orchid Richardson, SVP of Digital & Social at BET, said via email.
In the case of Girlfriend, what stood out first is her sound, Richardson said.
“Girlfriend is making R&B that feels both familiar and fresh, late-night, emotionally honest songwriting with production that’s current and unforced,” Richardson said. “She writes the way our audience talks about love and self-worth, with a vulnerability that doesn’t perform for the camera.”
From July through August, Girlfriend goes on a nearly 30-date tour with R&B artist Ella Mai (alongside singer Ama). (The closest date to Memphis is Nashville on Aug. 25 at The Pinnacle.)
Girlfriend answered a few questions for The Daily Memphian about her background, her music and what’s next.
Editor’s Note: Responses are lightly edited for style.
The Daily Memphian: How did you choose your artist name?
Girlfriend: When you think of a girlfriend, you think of someone who gives you love, affection, laughter, a safe space; I wanted to be that for my listeners. Whether you’re happy, sad, healing or celebrating, I want my music to be there for you like a friend would.
Does being from Sardis, Mississippi, influence the music you make?
Yes, it does. My friends from Sardis listened to mostly trap, soul and blues. My family, however, listened to reggae, R&B, pop, jazz, country and pretty much everything in between. My father also had an eclectic ear, so I grew up in a closed off environment, listening mostly to what he listened to. There were quite a few extremely popular artists that I simply passed on listening to because of my environment. I think it all added to the authenticity of my sound.
How do you feel about being chosen for BET’s Amplified program?
It feels surreal. It can even feel like being detached from the experience because it feels so much like a dream. All I can do is try to be as present as possible through it and just keep thanking God for the opportunity. I watched “106 & Park” every day after walking home from school, so it’s an insane full-circle moment.
What else influences your music?
My need to influence people in a positive way and always outdo myself. At heart, I have always been and will always be a fierce competitor. Music is something that allows me to live that out daily.
What kind of reaction did your album “Honey Water” receive from listeners?
It received an overwhelming reaction. It was quite shocking for me.
How is “Honey Water” similar or different from your past projects?
“Honey Water” is similar to my past projects because it is an authentic reflection of my emotions and experiences. It’s different because it was the first time I was able to be completely intentional about a body of work I was building out. I also collaborated in new ways and learned a lot from the producers, engineers and instrumentalists I worked with. The whole process felt magical.
How do you feel about touring this year? (Anything specific that you’re looking forward to while on tour?)
I’m extremely excited about the tour. I’m most excited about hitting the cities in the South and getting to show love to my hometown/family. It’s a dream come true.
Why did you choose Rhodes College? Why did you major in psychology?
I chose Rhodes College because I felt it would offer an invaluable quality of education. It felt rigorous but also personal. I left the college a completely different person than what I entered. It challenged me mentally and prepared me for success in ways I expected and didn’t expect.
What would you like to tell people in North Mississippi and Memphis?
I’d like to tell people from Mississippi and Memphis that there’s no place like home. I’ve seen many places; still, there is no place as beautiful as where we come from. Our culture is priceless. We influence and inspire so many without even knowing. Everything is in the air for us to take advantage of. Once you realize that your worth is inside you, there’s no limit to how far you can go.
Besides touring, what’s next for you?
I think just living. Making more music. Inspiring others, and doing it all over again.
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