Fresh on the heels of her seminal new EP, ‘Manifesto of Honesty’, London-via-Paris singer-songwriter Cha:dy has become an absolute sensation, charming the world with a string of intoxicating alt-pop tracks. Widely praised for her brave, open and honest songwriting and her ability to capture poignant moments through her storytelling, Cha:dy had described the new EP as a ‘sort of music diary’, confessing things to herself and the world.
A textured piece of raw truth, catchy melodies, and contemporary sounds, the EP is a masterpiece of modern sound, and we couldn’t wait to catch up with Cha:dy and find out more about it.
Wonderful to have you here, Cha:dy, thank you for taking the time. Your EP is making waves all across the world, gaining streams online and really resonating with listeners. Where did it all begin?
It really all started in the school playground, with my friends, we used to make up songs and dance routines and I could already see myself on stage. But then more seriously in high school, I performed in the school’s musical Annie and then around sixteen would try to write songs, but they were not really good though!
You’ve said the EP is a confession for you, can you tell us a bit more about it?
‘Manifesto of Honesty’ is a sort of music diary: it's all the things I needed to confess to myself and to everyone else, it's the ugly honest raw truth. It's a big shake of catchy melodies, two confessions, one big secret, one rap, some French lyrics and vibes... This project tackle’s themes that are rarely spoken in pop music like going through depression and mental health issues on ‘Lazy’, or coming out on ‘Mom I Gotta Tell You, I Think I Like Girls Too’, even toxic relationships in ‘Suffocating’, injustice and Black Lives Matter on ‘Brother’, and it also includes a millennial summer anthem: ‘Pink Lemonade’. We worked so hard on it and we’re really proud of it!
It’s such a raw and personal release, how does something like that come together?
To be honest, I don’t write as often as I should, only when I have the urge to do so, sometimes I’m the street and a melody comes to my head so I record it on my phone, it can also start with a topline, then you find the right chords -but the story is really what’s essential - if I know what I’m talking about the song can be written quite quickly...
Is that story and openness what you consider most important in a release?
When I write a song, I need to make sure that I tell the story right so the audience can relate to it, as if I was talking about them!
How would you describe your sound, and what most influences your process?
It’s a mix of alt-RnB and moody pop with Caribbean flavours and neo-soul. I’ve grown up listening to Jazz and Arabic music and I feel like you can find these influences in my music in small doses.
Now that the EP is out and finding its way in the world, what’s next for you as an artist?
I’m planning to do more gigs in the next week and hopefully some festivals. We’re also working on the next project and I’m super excited because I think it might be an album.
An album would be phenomenal! Can’t wait to see what happens. A few final questions for our readers, what would your dream collaboration be?
My dream collab, a song with Kendrick Lamar, he’s an amazing writer and performer, but what I like the most in his music is his spirituality.
What has been your best moment as a musician so far?
My EP launch show that was sold out was such a blast. Hearing people singing your songs was pure joy, it really was a dream come true mostly after this difficult time with the pandemic and all! It was such a beautiful night! I’m very grateful!
Finally, what advice would you give to band’s who are looking to make it big?
Well, I haven’t made it big...YET! But I’ve been working in this industry for a bit now and I would say: your work ethic is everything! Keep making noise, releasing music, I really think consistency is key and stay true to yourself - even if it’s not what’s trending atm I feel like there’s always going to be an audience that wanna hear what you wanna say
Cha:dy takes her cues from the silky production of acts such as NAO, Janelle Monae and M.I.A, incorporating elements of jazz, pop and soul, while still deeply inspired by household names like Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill and Amy Winehouse. Drawing from her combined influences, she thrives on the ability to experiment with her music, transcending genres and wearing her heart on her sleeve. Combined with her sultry yet gritty vocals, Cha:dy totally owns her own brand of bold and gutsy alt-jazz/pop; she is a true force to be reckoned with.
Connect with Cha:dy,
