Today we’d like to introduce you to Chi.
Hi Chi, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I think for many of us, the story’s the same. Music was an escape. I grew up in a cult-like environment. There was a heavy emphasis on strict, legalistic adherence to a code of morality with little to no explanation. There was no room for questioning. Faith was blind obedience. Everything was religious, not in the spiritual sense, rather in the ceremonial sense. This lead to a series of events including strange pseudo-scientific medical practices, exorcisms, and 3-6 month periods of isolation from other social support groups. During these periods of isolation, I found solace in writing my own songs.
Shortly after graduating high school, I auditioned for a new hip-hopera with creators based in Atlanta. Remarkably, I was given a role. Unfortunately, due to a number of prior commitments, I was unable to accept. However, in that moment I realized that I was, in fact, capable of creating something amazing.
I immediately joined up with other emcee’s in the area. I became a member of Soul Food Cypher, where I met a number of incredible lyricists who spurred my creative energy and challenged me to grow technically. I highly recommend everyone comes to check out SFC.
During this time, I worked three jobs as a behavioral therapist, dancer in a modern company, and a dance teacher. I saved every dime I could and worked 60 hours a week until I was able to afford recording time at Patchwerk Recording Studios. I didn’t have much, so in just two 8-hour sessions, I laid out 13 tracks for my debut album, Clinical. This was a two-fold blessing because I got to meet one of my best friends and most talented sound engineers/producer I know, DJ Doo.
At the time, COVID was a rumor far off in China (about a month before it hit the US). I recorded my first single, Viral, and worked with another great friend of mine, Dan Dunlop at Dunlop Productions to plan and shoot a music video. We shot it exactly the day before the state of Georgia went on lockdown.
Well, after a year and a half, I had experienced loss. We all did during that time. I had finally gotten some more money in the bank and in September of 2021, I recorded the Phobia EP. This five song EP was the next level for me both technically and message-wise. I completely self-funded a 1-hour concert (featuring the legendary Levi Ransom), and I was blessed to have 350 virtual attendees around the world.
And that brings us to the present. I’ve been recording a few singles and am currently fleshing out an album pitch with some awesome producers, but now it comes down to finding the funding for the next adventure.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
It’s certainly not been a smooth road. The biggest struggle has been funding. At this point, I’ve spent over $40,000 on creating music and performing. Thankfully, I’ve been given a strong work ethic, and I’m able to work to get those funds consistently. However, it would be nice if I could breathe a little bit.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a rapper and modern dancer. For dance, I’m currently in a dance company called Room To Move Dance under the artistic direction of Amy Gately. My training is primarily in Horton and Hawkins techniques. I also travel and teach dance workshops in other countries. I just recently got back from a trip to Alexandria, Egypt.
My music takes heavy inspiration from artists like Tech N9ne and Eminem. The lyricism of rap is why I gravitate to it. Words are power, and a wordsmith is able to harness that power to influence others to action. My background in psychology and my religious upbringing contribute the most to my music. I work with topics pertaining to mental illness, religion, and the intersection between the reality of the spiritual world, the mind, and the physical world.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
My interests have always been varied. I was a super smart kid who thrived in all areas outside the home. My interests were varied, but I’ve always gravitated to the performing arts. I have also always had a deep appreciation for aesthetics. In fact, my whole life I’ve wanted to be a part of creating something that is beautiful just for the sake of beauty.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.chitherapper.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/chitherapper?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
