Today we’d like to introduce you to Chastity Hinson.
Hi Chastity, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’m an Oakland native who has felt like a creative for as long as I can remember, even before I had the words to describe it. I come from a musical family, but I didn’t realize how deeply music would take root in me until my first elementary school talent show. I was supposed to be part of a dance act with my friends, but when they all dropped out, I decided to sing instead. The song was only thirty seconds long, which might have seemed ridiculous, but in true Leo fashion, once I made up my mind, I followed through. That thirty seconds changed everything for me.
From there, I attended Oakland School for the Arts from seventh through twelfth grade, spent a little time at Berklee, and by nineteen I had moved to Europe to chase my passion. That journey eventually led me to Atlanta right at the start of COVID. After just one visit, I knew it was where I needed to be. Whenever people asked about my plan, my only answer was “music and God”—and that’s exactly what I found.
In Atlanta, I pursued seminary while also singing on the road with Musiq Soulchild, even opening for him on tour. My story is one of leaps and bounds, choosing again and again to follow the passion I believe God placed in me.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Following your dreams can be one of the most challenging things you’ll ever do, because it means stepping into spaces most people wouldn’t dare take the chance on. Along the way, I’ve had setbacks—being broke, being judged, talked about, and not making sense to family or friends. There were plenty of times I questioned if I could keep going, and honestly, I still have moments like that. But I know I was created to create, and when I’m not, I feel like I’m dying. For me, there really is no other option. And the beautiful thing is, when the fruit finally bears in its season, it makes every struggle worth it.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m an all-around creative, but my main strengths are singing, performing, and songwriting. On the side, I’m also known for making people laugh online. I like to joke that comedy is my side hustle.
What I’m most proud of is that I’ve built my brand on authenticity. When I was younger, I leaned into gimmicks, but now that I’m in my 30s, it’s take me or leave me. The fact that I can present myself as myself, and that it’s received well and inspires others, makes me genuinely happy. Inspiring people to be better is my life purpose, and music is the vehicle I use to do it.
What sets me apart is simple. I’m me. Nobody else can be that. I sit in that truth and embrace it. Countless people can sing, write, and create, but God only made one me, and the more I lean into that, the more I see how truly set apart I am.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
One of my favorite childhood memories was going to the bookstore with my mom and sister. We would spend the whole day there, reading books and sipping hot chocolate at Starbucks. What made it even more special was the music. Borders used to have a section where you could preview new songs before they were officially released, and we’d sit and listen together. Those moments were some of the most epic and magical times of my childhood.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: thesingerchazz
- Youtube: thesingerchazz
- Other: tik tok: thesingerchazz0
Image Credits
SAMMY SKY @SAMMYSKY
AYO TALLY @AYOTALLY
TATYANNA CHAMERE @TATYANNACHAMERE
