Black Buttafly

From the vibrant streets of New Brunswick, New Jersey, emerges 28-year-old Kayla Childs, the artist known as Black Buttafly—a singular musical force weaving soul, jazz, and gospel into a deeply resonant sound.

From the vibrant streets of New Brunswick, New Jersey, emerges 28-year-old Kayla Childs, the artist known as Black Buttafly—a singular musical force weaving soul, jazz, and gospel into a deeply resonant sound. Rooted in a lifetime of musical study and spiritual grounding, her influences range from Patrice Rushen and Herbie Hancock to Stevie Wonder and J Dilla, all of whom inform her genre-bending approach. Now based in Philadelphia, Kayla is a singer, songwriter, pianist, producer, and bandleader whose performances invite listeners into a shared emotional journey. She has toured nationally and internationally, collaborating with artists such as Ms. Lauryn Hill, Pete Rock, KeiyaA, and DJ Jazzy Jeff. Whether performing solo or with collectives like Omar’s Hat and The Nu School Collective, Black Buttafly brings radiant presence, reverence, and innovation to every stage she graces. Her debut EP, Fly Free, released in 2024, affirms her as both storyteller and sonic healer.