The Italian Market, Bob and Barbara’s, and Time restaurant make her list.
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Pianist and singer-songwriter Kayla Childs, aka Black Buttafly / Photography by Theresa Regan
For dynamic pianist and singer-songwriter Kayla Childs — aka Black Buttafly — performing live offers a sense of transformation, for her and for her audience. West Philly–based (and loving it), Childs has been making music since childhood; she released her debut EP, Fly Free, in November 2024, and has an album in the works. Here’s what else moves her.
At Home
Prized possession: My keyboards! Specifically, my OB-Xa, given to me by legendary jazz drummer Mr. Lenny White.
Favorite piece of jewelry: My hoop earrings from the Sable Collective. I don’t walk out of the house without a nice hoop earring in.
Skincare essential: The InnisFree kit — it keeps my skin glowing.
Makeup must-have: Mascara, Fenty Beauty gloss , maybe a little white eyeliner if I’m feeling it for the stage.
Top musicians: Patrice Rushen, Herbie Hancock, Stevie Wonder, Sly and the Family Stone, D’Angelo, Erykah Badu, Roberta Flack … I can keep going.
Reading: Gorilla, My Love, by Toni Cade Bambara.
Morning ritual: Having tea or coffee at the piano.
Way to unwind: Lying on my bedroom floor.
On the Job
On my desk: My studio workstation with my MIDI keyboard.
Go-to gadget: My computer and headphones. I love listening to music and mixing/engineering when I have time on the go.
Current project: I will start working on my album in February.
Best advice: “Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready. You never know who’s watching.” My mom used to tell me this.
Why I love my job: People come to my shows and leave changed by the experience. Playing and performing music to me is an act of service and a privilege.
Biggest inspiration: My godmother, Vershelle Jarmon. I grew up sitting next to her every Sunday while she played the Hammond B3. She was so fierce on the piano and as a music director.
On the Go
Hairstylist: My loctician, Danielle Moseley, of Let’s Twist and Makeup.
Go-to market: The Italian Market.
Best bar: Bob and Barbara’s, for a whiskey neat.
Coffee joint: Adelie Coffee House, owned by my good friend Will.
Hangout spot: Time restaurant. Every musician has a memorable moment there.
Annual trip: DJ Jazzy Jeff’s Playlist Retreat, in Delaware.
Published as “High Notes” in the February 2026 issue of Philadelphia magazine.