Born in Jamaica, Phaedra Manning moved to New York where she currently resides. The Hip-Hop/R&B artist has a minor is music which she is extremely passionate about. Not only is this bad ass babe an incredible artist but she also attends John Jay College for her major in Criminal Justice. This vivacious 21 year old is hoping to release her debut album late this year or early 2020.
Her new single “Grinding” is a smooth R&B banger. Phaedra’s vocals along with her flawless flow make her an artist to beat! The multi-talented and explosive Phaedra Manning needs to brag that she’s been “Grinding on it” she recites, “Grinding on that money babe, grinding on that body babe”. Fusing her Jamaican roots with her New York attitude, the seductive and fresh single “Grinding” takes us through a journey. She exudes confidence and femininity through my speakers. I’m in awe of her effortless ability to demand attention from her listeners. Her fans can vibe and relate to “Grinding”. The production, by Reefboi, is professional and well done. Phaedra’s mesmerizing sound arrangements paired with the track’s dope and heavy backbeat have us craving more. I’m adding this track to my personal playlist. I highly recommend you vibe along to this single “Grinding” and stay on the lookout for what Phaedra Manning drops next!
Listen to "Grinding" here and get to know more about Phaedra Manning below!
Can you tell us more about yourself? When did you move to New York?
I moved to New York in 2011 from Jamaica. I went to MS 246 then I went to Science Skills center High school. After graduating High school in 2016, I went to LaGuardia Community college where I graduated in the fall of 2017. I then started John Jay College in the spring of 2018 where I am expected to graduate in the Fall of 2019 with a major in a Criminal Justice and a double minor in theatre and music.
We love your track “Grinding”. What was the writing process like for this song?
Grinding was produced by Reefboi who I am so thankful for. Without the track that he made, “Grinding”would not be possible. He sent me the beat on the Friday and I was on the subway trying to figure out what exactly it was that I could put to it. Grinding was the first thing that came to my mind and I stuck with it and I’m happy I did. The following day, which was the Saturday, I sat down and I wrote the song, I really liked it and I sent it to him and he liked it too. I went to the studio on Sunday and I did the song. Sent over the files, to Reefboi and he mixed and mastered it! I love the way he did it and I’m really happy because he is such a great producer. The song is really about taking on the attributes of other individuals that your significant other finds attractive and using them to make sure your partner goes no where because, there is no need to cheat, and waste time energy and money that has been invested into the relationship. If they want a baddie, you can be a baddie! You can transform into whoever they want.
Who are your top three biggest musical influences?
I have a lot of music influences, it’s very hard to choose due to the fact that everyone has made an impact on me. Three people I could choose would be, Beyonce, Daniel Caesar, and Alicia Keys.
Even though there are a lot more, I must say that Marvin Gaye, Lauryn Hill, The Bee Gees and others from the the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s are also great influences because I grew up listening to them and I see a greater and more meaningful connection with their music.
What can we expect from your upcoming album?
From my album, you can expect, truth, fun, and sadness. You can expect rawness because I feel the more raw I am, the more one can relate.
What’s your fan base like in New York? Do you perform often?
I have a fan base, it’s not very huge but it’s getting there as people are liking the song “Grinding.” I have performed at DROMNYC and the crowd was loving it. I have more performances coming soon. I also perform unreleased songs at these shows, so come out and support so you can hear more. You can expect a music video very soon and it will be something amazing. Follow me on Instagram @phaedra52 and @theofficialphaedra for more details on shows and new music.
Connect with Phaedra Manning on social media
www.instagram.com/phaedra52
www.instagram.com/theofficialphaedra