North London born vocalist Phebe Edwards is widely regarded for her gospel rooted power, effortless versatility and soaring soprano. She is a singer whose artistry has been shaped by both classical training and a lifetime immersed in soul, R&B and contemporary music. Classically trained on piano from the age of five and raised on gospel traditions, she developed a sound that blends technical precision with emotional depth.
Phebe’s career spans an extensive list of collaborations and performances with artists including Adele, Macy Gray, Gabrielle, Jessie J, Stormzy, Elton John, Rod Stewart and Craig David. She has also performed a solo both with and for soul legend James Brown at the BBC Electric Proms. From international touring to standout studio recordings and televised performances, Phebe has built a reputation as a sought after vocalist, arranger and vocal coach at the highest level of the industry.
Phebe Edwards sat down with Wordplay Magazine to chat about her Ronnie Scott show:
1. Congratulations on selling out your recent Ronnie Scott’s show. It was great to see you live, and you sounded incredible. I know it wasn’t your first time performing there, but what was it like returning to such an iconic venue and playing to a sold-out audience?
It was honestly such a great feeling. Actually really surreal! Ronnie Scott’s has always been one of those venues that represents excellence, legacy and incredible musicianship. To walk out and see a full room of people who had come specifically to hear my music was so emotional.
I’ve spent a lot of my career supporting other artists, which I genuinely love, but this felt different. It felt like people connecting directly with me, my stories and my songs. By the end of the night I felt like I had achieved something I’d dreamed about for years. It was one of those moments where you stop and think, “Wow, I did it!”
2. During the show, you spoke openly about losing your mum and your nephew. It was a really moving moment and showed a lot of vulnerability. How do their memories continue to influence your music and creativity today?
Losing my mum and my nephew has forever changed me. The grief never leaves you, I’m just learning to cope with it over time. My Mum taught me resilience, faith and perseverance. Joey taught me to be brave and to take opportunities when they appear.
When I stand on stage now, I don’t just sing for myself. I carry them both with me. Some of the most meaningful songs I perform now come from allowing myself to be vulnerable and tell the truth about my experiences and their memories continue to shape not only the music I make, but the woman and artist I am today.
3. You’ve spoken before about your nephew being a big reason you applied for the role of Katherine Jackson in the Michael Jackson musical. What was that experience like, and how has playing Katherine impacted you both personally and professionally?
Playing Katherine Jackson was one of the greatest honours of my career. The role came at a time when I was navigating a lot personally, and stepping into the shoes of such a strong matriarch taught me a great deal about grace and strength. Something about Katherine reminded me of my own mum. The way she carried herself, guided and protected her children and remained a source of comfort through difficult times resonated deeply with me.
Professionally it challenged me to grow as an actress and storyteller. Personally it allowed me to connect with my own experiences of family, grief and resilience in a way I never expected.