Chonna Cristelle is from “a little bit of everywhere”, Texas. She had visions of becoming a singing princess that she would never share, and slowly became too shy to use her own voice. Chonna’s life had a lot of moving parts, and took even more wrong turns. It was the only life she knew; she thought it was perfect.
It is with her music that she hopes to help others express and share their inner darkness, instead of hushing what society doesn’t easily hear. Mental health is something that needs to be shared, not simply medicated. Chonna brings light to these experiences on her debut single, Ink BLOT.
In this interview spotlight, I chat with Chonna about her music, technology, challenges and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Where are you from and what style of music do you create? (In your own words, not necessarily in marketing terms or by popular genre classifications)
I grew up wandering around Texas getting a taste of both city and country life. About ten years ago, I made the move to California and have since been able to really connect with nature and the ocean. This environment has really helped me clear my mind and focus on putting my thoughts onto paper. I feel my music draws you in with a dark soulful sound, but can also give you a big hug of southern charm. I write lyrics that tell an authentic story about myself, but not in a “poppin’ bubbly at the club” type way.
What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?
Simple, life. One day I looked around and realized I wasn’t living the life I envisioned. My dreams were forgotten when life got real. Now I’m retracing my steps and revisiting my past.
I put my thoughts into poetry and melodies to grasp a fuller understanding of what it all means. I turned back to my journal for solace, as I had done as a girl. Writing brings me peace and acceptance, turning that into music helps me share that. Creating music is like a therapeutic release for me. That’s the motivation that keeps me going. It’s not “likes” or “follows”. If something I write deeply moves even one person, that makes it even more worth it.
How is this new release different than previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?
Ink Blot is my first original project as an artist. I dabbled with doing covers before opening my journal to share with everyone. I have an album in the works and will be releasing several more singles soon. I guess I would say the message behind this upcoming album is self healing. Most of the songs are about things I’ve struggled with in the past, and I am just now getting around to healing those wounds.
Name one or two challenges you face as an indie musician in this oversaturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)?
Time, really. Life is busy, haha. I’m not so concerned about the over saturation that comes with trying to be an emerging indie artist. I’m more focused on putting myself out there and grasping whoever wants to listen. I’m looking more to connect with people that relate to my music then being the next over-played, one hit wonder.
Technology is an amazing tool. It allows me to quickly and easily get my message out to anyone and everyone. That instant connection with listeners is amazing and in a way spoils emerging indie artists. I can’t wait to have the opportunity to go on tour and perform live, but can’t imagine that being the only way to get my thoughts and music out there.
What was the last song you listened to?
Donna Missal – Keep Lying. I’m kinda on a female vocal powerhouse kick right now. Donna Missal really puts her all into every performance. She’s definitely someone I look up to.
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
My dream is an antique phonograph in a room full of vinyl, but I also am on the move quite a bit. So, I guess a bunch of vinyl backed up on mp3s so I can take it on the go.
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
Spotify. I love the authenticity of the platform. I’m able to find anyone and everyone. It takes the illusiveness out of the music world.
Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more music?
Instagram is my vice of choice when it comes to social. It’s just so easy to throw out quick updates about what’s happening.
Anything else before we sign off?
So soon? Check out my first single on Spotify and for you visual learners, watch my video on YouTube. My next single is coming out soon, so be sure to follow along!
