Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Chayla Hope. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Chayla, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
My career as a solo artist began with the biggest professional risk I’ve ever taken: leaving my band of 10 years and job pressing vinyl at Gotta Groove Records on the same day. It was scary, but being selected to sing the theme song for Care Bears: Unlock The Magic just a couple months prior gave me the confidence I needed to break out of my creative cocoon. The resulting two year metamorphosis into pop music has been a difficult, but wonderful journey of growth that has taught me so much about myself. I wouldn’t change it for the world.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’ve been a musician for as long as I can remember, dating all the way back to my childhood memories of leaping off my dad’s guitar amp and belting The Troggs’ “Wild Thing” while my mom filmed home videos. I always went straight for the lens. As I got older, I joined any band that would have me, spanning from Celtic metal to screamo to fronting the Emmy-award winning symphonic rock six-piece Seafair. I was a machinist by day and drag performer by night, soaking in all of the glamour and tough stuff. It shows in my sound. I’ve always been fascinated by the juxtaposition of happy music masking sad lyrics, and as a pop artist, I use my voice to explore heartbreak, infatuation, loss and the feelings that make us human while dancing through it all.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
Hearing from and talking with fans all over the world about how my music resonates with them and has changed their lives for the better is by far the most reward part of my career.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
Letting go of my ego in favor of collaboration. Making music and writing songs leads to so much more growth and fulfillment when its with others.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.chaylahope.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chaylahope/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chaylahope
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/chayla_hope
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@chaylahope
- Other: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4KDGJYrHTxrldgJdHMrnPB?si=_jRk0aQtT161AvNK58R38g TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chaylahope
Image Credits
Please credit all photos to Lindsey Poyar.