Congratulations on the release of Humanity- how does it feel?
It feels like letting a secret out into the world – a beautiful secret we’ve been patiently nurturing. We’ve been performing some of these songs live for a while, so finally being able to share the studio versions feels like opening a bottle that’s been building pressure. There’s excitement, pride, and a little nervousness – the good kind. We’re thrilled it’s now living its own life.
What’s your favorite track from it?
That’s always like choosing a favorite child, but if I must – “Profile” has a special place for me. It captures that mix of vulnerability and groove that feels very “us.” And “Truth,” featuring Doobie Powell, is pure magic for me. Ask me tomorrow, and I’ll probably pick a different one!
You describe it as a collection of songs born out of real conversations, late-night ideas, and the desire to connect through truth. What was the catalyst?
Life. The past few years have been full of questions – about identity, love, purpose, the stories we tell ourselves to get through the day. Those long conversations after shows, voice memos recorded at 3 AM, personal confessions among friends… we realized that the most meaningful music happens when you stop pretending and just tell the truth. Humanity is us being completely ourselves – flawed, hopeful, searching, alive.
What was the easiest and most challenging part of recording the album?
The easiest part was the chemistry – we genuinely love creating together, and when a song clicks, it really clicks. The hardest part was time. We tour a lot, we all have multiple creative lives, and aligning schedules can be a puzzle. But that challenge also gave the project depth… the songs had time to grow with us.
Tell us about Kennedy Administration.
We got together for a single cover music gig in the West Village, and it was instant magic. Since then, we’ve played hundreds of shows from Berlin to Jakarta, built a beautiful international fanbase, and grown into a family. We’re rooted in soul, jazz, R&B – but more than anything, we’re rooted in feel.
Kennedy your vocals are incredible, what are your three tips for keeping your voice in shape?
There’s an entire world that exists within the art of performance.
Being a vocalist isn’t just about your voice — it’s about using your whole body as an instrument.
That’s why maintaining a strong cardio routine is essential, along with staying hydrated through nourishing options like okra or coconut water. Grapes are also a great natural source of hydration.
And of course, do your best to steer clear of alcohol because it drys you out and delays vocal recovery, unnecessary stress, and energetically draining environments — your voice (and your spirit) will thank you.
You were formed in New York – what did you listen to starting out?
Anything that shook the walls of a club in Manhattan or Brooklyn. D’Angelo, Erykah Badu, The Roots, Stevie Wonder on repeat… but also Roy Hargrove’s RH Factor, Robert Glasper – that whole movement that fused soul with jazz and hip-hop. We’ve always loved music that grooves but says something deeper.
I’ll also add that watching how people in New York clubs light up when old records by Marvin Gaye, Michael Jackson, Chaka Khan, Earth, Wind & Fire, and others start spinning really drives home how essential the groove is. It reminds you that people don’t just want to hear music—they want to be taken on a journey by it.
Ondre, being a keyboard player – your three favourite keyboard players?
Only three? That’s brutal :-D. Herbie Hancock – for limitless curiosity, Cory Henry – for pure fire and innovation and Larry Goldings – for taste, pocket, and storytelling
I could go on… but we’d be here all day.
Being from New York – your three favourite things about it?
You can hear world-class music on a Tuesday night… on any corner.
The mix of people – the city is humanity.
The creative electricity that never switches off. Even when it overwhelms you, it keeps you moving forward
For me it would be all the serendipity that you come to experience in New York.
Being able to meet legends.
Having the opportunity to grow due to everything that makes New York special and possibly becoming a legend.
What are you listening to at the moment?
Honestly these days it’s mostly classical music.
What are you looking forward to doing in 2026?
Bringing Humanity to as many people as possible – more shows, more collaboration, more connection. And personally, I’m excited to continue growing as a writer and producer. I want 2026 to be the year where everything we’ve been building truly blossoms.
