Today we’d like to introduce you to Chierra Williams.
Chierra, before we jump into specific questions about your music, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
For as long as I can remember, music has always been a part of my life. Whether it was singing in the children’s choir at church, my mom yelling at me for playing my music too loud in my headphones, or traveling overseas with my High School Choir, music has plugged its way in and has often provided a soundtrack to my life.
I’m originally from Philadelphia, PA. I spent my childhood there until I moved to Texas in 2011 to attend Baylor University in Waco, TX. As a Marketing and Management Information Systems double major, my studies were far from a music focus in school, but my passion was still there. I spent countless late nights on YouTube, Tumblr, and music blogs (Concrete Loop) learning more about producers, underground artists, and the music industry. I even planned events on campus such as ‘Grab the Mic’ (performing arts showcase) and ‘Fish Fry’ (fundraiser) where I brought artists like Jarell Perry and Johnny Stimson to campus to perform.
After graduating, I moved to Dallas to work at a Big 4 Accounting Firm, where I currently serve as an IT auditor specializing in the technology and retail sector. Although I love my company, I felt that something was missing in my personal life. I later came to realize I was missing my passion and that’s when Chi’s CheckIn was created.
Great, 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?
I wouldn’t say the road has been smooth, but it definitely has been one of self-discovery. As a creative, I’ve struggled to be fully confident in what I do. I’m sharing my craft and expression, and that can naturally feel deeply personal. Each project I release is a part of me. It’s a feeling, a thought, even a memory. So, when others consume my art, there may be judgement associated with it. I was afraid of that judgement. My mind was plagued with questions like, “What if they don’t like it?” “What if they don’t get my musical taste?” “Will anyone even listen?” I doubted my gift as something that couldn’t contribute to my space. Thankfully, I’m blessed with an amazing tribe that encouraged me and a vision from the Lord that helped me take the first step into my purpose. Along the road of self-discovery, I learned I am capable, equipped, passionate, and needed.
For anyone that has a passion or love for something but is afraid to sprint towards your goal: don’t look back at the doubts that may be chasing you. You are valuable. Your gifts are only yours. Share them with others.
Please tell us about your music.
Chi’s CheckIn was conceptualized in 2019 as a passion project. The purpose is to cultivate a community of curated music that inspires, invigorates, and brings joy to each person that listens by exposing them to art. Music is so powerful it can change your whole mood, spark conversation, and forge connections. Music has always been a passion of mine. It’s such a blissful experience listening to artists across various genres and I wanted to share this feeling with other people. What makes my playlists different? They are a reflection of me. I love to smile, sing, dance, and be joyful. Music is my light in darkness. It uplifts me. I hope my playlists provide you with music that helps you do the same. If any of the songs on my playlists urge you to engage with the artist, share with friends, or even just add it to your library, then Chi’s CheckIns is one step closer to walking in its purpose.
The name Chi’s CheckIn was created to blend music, genres, timeless classic jams, and me. My best friend actually inspired the name as it was me checking in with the latest and greatest vibes. Chi’s Checkin was created to celebrate GOOD in music. Not to critique but to simply celebrate.
It began with the first playlist, In·i·ti·a·tion, and has produced 19 playlists ever since. The latest of our releases is called ‘Wash Day’. In the heat of the civil rights uprisings, which is shedding light on what it truly means to be black in America, I wanted to put out something that celebrated us. I’m ’natural’, meaning I rock my curly hair as it grows from my scalp. Some may regard it as unkept or unprofessional, but I see my hair as my crown. Being natural takes work too, which I’m sure other black people can identify with. Especially when a twist out has run its course, or the wash-n-go looks like it’s time to go, or that line up isn’t hitting with your curly top. All these examples can only mean one thing for us. It’s time for WASH DAY! As a black woman with naturally curly thick hair, I know what a struggle wash day can be, but the results are often well worth the effort. I figured we could all use a little motivation to get us through the shampoo, deep conditioning, and styling process and that’s where the latest CheckIn comes in clutch. I wanted to inspire listeners to embrace their hair no matter the texture because it’s unique to them and they’re beautiful.
All playlists are available on both the Apple Music and Spotify streaming platforms. We’re hoping to expand the Chi’s CheckIn family in Summer 2020. You’ll have to keep an eye out for the launch of our new project.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
My favorite childhood memory is making home music videos with my best friend, Morgan. We would get my mom to record our performances and these were full length concerts. haha. The classic one is dancing to the entire Britney Spears album. Let’s just say my music library has grown A LOT since those days in 1st grade.
Do you feel like our city is a good place for businesses like yours? If someone was just starting out, would you recommend them starting out here? If not, what can our city do to improve?
I often get asked if I want to move to another city and my answer is always, NO! I absolutely love Dallas. From the music scene, the arts district, and countless events for the young professional, I think this city is perfect. Moving here definitely influenced my musical taste because Dallas is home to so many great artists. It’s also an incredibly diverse city; there’s literally something for everyone here. Dallas is the perfect city to move to and thrive in the space you’re most drawn.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://msha.ke/checkup_onit08/
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @chi_checkin
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chicheckin
- Twitter: @Chi_Checkin
Image Credit:
Headshot1 – @deee_porter
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