For more than a decade, Chicago born artist Kaye Fox has been an undisputed force in contemporary music lending her voice and pen to some of the most influential artists of our time including Kanye West, J. Cole, Nas and more.
In addition to being a frequent collaborator of West on a number of his projects including My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, Jesus Is King, and The Sunday Service Collective, the talented singer/songwriter is also credited with arranging and performing background vocals on six tracks from Nas’ critically acclaimed Life is Good album, including the Grammy-winning single “Daughters“, as well as co-writing and arranging J. Cole’s platinum hit, “No Role Modelz“. Other artists Fox has been tapped to contribute background vocals, vocal arrangements, and writing services to include Tyler the Creator, Ghostface Killah, and Eric Benet to name a few.
With the release of her new single, “WWYD” (What Would You Do), Fox is set to step out from the background and give the world a taste of her own artistry. The single delves into the uncertainties of love and the risks involved in exposing your heart. Offering a glimpse into the intimate and personal stories that fuel her creativity, Fox’s ability to balance raw emotion with expertly crafted arrangements has already drawn comparisons to legends like Lauryn Hill and Mary J. Blige.
N’DIGO recently caught up with the in-demand singer to learn more about her background and the exciting projects she has on the horizon.
N’DIGO: In your own words, who is Kaye Fox?
Kaye Fox: Kaye Fox is an artist. She is a creative. And above all, she is a persona that gets to play, have fun and create.
What are three words your family and friends would use to describe you?
Funny. Independent. Talented
Did you always know you wanted to do music as a child or did you dream of doing something else at first?
For most of my childhood, I wanted to be a pediatrician because I love children so much. I started singing at 7 years old so it was something that I always loved to do. Had no idea I’d make a career out of it. In fact, I didn’t really see it as a career possibility until I was around 15 or so.
Who was the first singer you remember taking note of that ultimately inspired you?
Whitney hands down. She just embodied it all to me. She made me feel like I could be a star.
Having worked with such a long list of incredible artists, what would you say is one of the biggest lessons you’ve learned about the music business?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is to take in every experience and become a sponge. Great artists are great for reasons. If you have aligned with being around them, it’s for a reason so get what you came for. Soak it all in with every single opportunity that you are blessed to get.
Please tell us about your new single, “WWYD”?
“WWYD” (What Would You Do) is a song about how it feels to be in a relationship with someone you’re starting to have deep feelings for. The moment when you realize you may actually be afraid to have feelings for someone because there’s a chance they don’t feel the same.
What’s the one thing you want people to take away from your music?
I want people that connect to my music to come into my world and feel free to be vulnerable because I am. I want people to understand me and where I’m coming from. Use my music to laugh, cry, dance and start conversations. And above all, I want people to know they’re not alone.
What are some of your all-time favorite albums?
“Off the Wall” – Michael Jackson
“The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” – Lauren Hill
“Back to Black” – Amy Winehouse
“Confessions “ – Usher
“Songs in the Key of Life” – Stevie Wonder
“Purple Rain” – Prince
How do you maintain your mental health and/or self-care?
I meditate daily. I’m always reading or studying something. And occasionally I will take months long social media breaks.
Can you name a book that changed or really impacted your life?
Think and Grow Rich is the first self-help book that changed my trajectory in life.
What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?
I am Geechie.
Best advice for aspiring artists?
Trust your ideas. Be confident in yourself and enjoy the journey. Never stop having fun!
Favorite quote or affirmation?
“I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High.” – Psalm 82:6 King James Version
What’s next for Kaye Fox?
In the immediate future, I will be doing some live shows soon and I will be creating continually in preparation for my full-length project that will be dropping in 2025 so you definitely want to stay tuned.
For more information on Kaye Fox, feel free to connect with her on Instagram at @ItsKayeFox
