Kenadi Dodds, the 20-year-old hailing from North Logan, Utah, emerged as a rising star on the music scene with her unforgettable performances on NBC’s America’s Got Talent, where she captivated audiences and judges alike with her powerhouse vocals and heartfelt songwriting. As a finalist and fan favorite on the show, Kenadi’s talent shone brightly, earning her acclaim and admiration from viewers across the Nation.
Beyond her remarkable journey on America’s Got Talent, Kenadi is currently embarking on an exciting new chapter in her career. Under the guidance of mentor Graham Russell from the legendary duo Air Supply, she is poised to take her music to even greater heights. With Russell’s expertise and guidance, Kenadi is honing her craft and preparing to leave an indelible mark on the music industry.
Kenadi’s debut single, “Toxic,” produced by multi-platinum hitmaker Brian Howes (Daughtry, Simple Plan, Nickelback), is set to make waves upon its release. Mastered by Grammy-winning engineer Randy Merrill (Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga, Chappell Roan) at Sterling Sound, the track combines Howes’ chart-topping production sensibilities with Kenadi’s raw talent and passion, promising to be a compelling showcase of her artistry and a glimpse into the boundless potential that lies ahead.
Driven by her unwavering dedication to her craft and fueled by her undeniable talent, Kenadi Dodds is destined to soar to new heights in the music world. With her killer voice and soul-stirring lyrics, she is a force to be reckoned with, and her journey is only just beginning. Keep an eye out for Kenadi Dodds as she continues to make her mark as a singer-songwriter extraordinaire.
Kenadi welcome to OLC! Love your name by the way. Now your debut single “Toxic” is a powerful exploration of ADHD and self-acceptance. What inspired you to write such a personal and vulnerable song, and how did it feel to translate those experiences into music?
“Toxic” came from a real place of feeling misunderstood. Growing up with ADHD, I often struggled in friendships and relationships. I knew I had a good heart, but I started to wonder if I was just too much. Writing this song helped me reclaim that, turning pain and confusion into something confident, bold, and empowering. It felt amazing to finally say, “This is me — and I’m not sorry for it.”
You’ve described “Toxic” as a declaration of self-worth. How did your journey with ADHD shape the message of the song, and what do you hope listeners take away from it?
ADHD shaped a lot of how I move through the world — the way I communicate, connect, and process emotions. I used to think those differences made me broken, but they just make me different. “Toxic” flips the script. I hope people who feel misunderstood hear it and realize they’re not alone — and that their quirks and fire are something to be proud of.
Working with a producer like Brian Howes, known for his work with Nickelback and Simple Plan, must have been incredible. How did his input influence the sound and energy of “Toxic”?
Brian totally got the vision. He helped shape the song into something explosive, high-energy, edgy, and in-your-face, demanding your attention. He really pushed it sonically in ways that took the song to a new level. He helped turn it into something powerful enough to scream in an arena!
Your vocals in “Toxic” are both expressive and commanding. How did you approach blending the raw emotion of the lyrics with the high-energy pop-rock production?
“Toxic” was born from that emotion, but the production had to match the fire behind it. I wanted the vocals to feel fierce, like someone stepping into their power. There’s a flirty edge, a little bit of mischief, even some unapologetic female villain energy! I just thought about the version of myself who felt dismissed or misunderstood, and I sang for her. That mix of anger, hurt, and confidence is what drove the performance.
You’ve performed at major venues like the Delta Center and Rice-Eccles Stadium. How has your experience on America’s Got Talent and these stages prepared you for releasing your debut single?
Performing on those big stages taught me how to connect with a crowd. AGT especially helped me trust that I had something worth sharing. Releasing “Toxic” feels like the next evolution — it’s me taking everything I’ve learned and putting it into a song that’s fully mine.
Collaborating with Graham Russell of Air Supply is a huge milestone. Can you share how that mentorship came about and what it’s been like working with such a legendary figure?
Graham has been an incredible mentor and friend. He discovered me through a show I was performing at and believed in me right away. Working with someone so legendary — and so kind — has been such a blessing. He’s helped me grow as a songwriter and a storyteller, and he’s always encouraged me to be fearlessly myself, and pave my own path.
The music industry can be challenging, especially when addressing topics like mental health. How do you stay true to your authentic voice while navigating those pressures?
I always try to look forward and see past the pressure of the music industry. I’ve definitely felt the weight of it, but I’ll NEVER change who I am to fit in. I remind myself constantly why I started — because of the music. Every time I perform on stage, I ask myself, “Is it still worth it?” And the answer is always yes! If it ever becomes no, that’s when I’ll know it’s time to step away. But I don’t see that happening for a long time.
“Toxic” has been praised for its diary-like storytelling. How do you approach songwriting to balance personal experiences with creating something universally relatable?
I always write from a real place, but I try to tell the story in a way that leaves room for others to see themselves in it. “Toxic” could be about ADHD, heartbreak, or just feeling judged — and that’s intentional. I want listeners to feel like the song is their story, not just mine.
With your music resonating with those facing mental health challenges or self-discovery, what message would you give to young fans who feel misunderstood or labeled as “too much”?
You’re not too much — you’re just too real for people who haven’t learned how to hold that yet. Don’t shrink to fit someone else’s comfort zone. The world needs people who feel deeply and show up fully. Your intensity is a gift — never let anyone dim it.
You’re already collaborating on new music with Air Supply. Can you give us a sneak peek into what’s next for you musically, and how “Toxic” sets the stage for your future projects?
“Toxic” is just the beginning — there’s a lot more coming. I’ve been working on songs that dive even deeper into identity, love, chaos, and growth. Collaborating with Air Supply has inspired me to take bigger risks and tell even bolder stories. The future is going to be loud, honest, and fearless!
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- Email: neill@outloudculture.com
