Today we’d like to introduce you to Chyna Griffin.
Hi Chyna, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born to a musical family. My mother is R&B singer Faith Evans , my father Kiyamma is a producer and highly respected gospel musician. I’ve been around music, my whole life Whether being in a studio with my parents or being at church, where my father played the organ. I was just a baby when my mom first signed her record deal so I got to witness her entire career from inception. I traveled with her on tour early on. So it was natural that I inherited musical abilities and took an interest in the industry. I started to write and produce songs around 11 years old. Over the years I’ve worked with lots of local talent, friends of friends, and budding artist just trying to craft my sound. Along the way I’ve had several moments where I thought maybe the industry wasn’t for me. I wanted to give up several times. It definitely does test your inner strength. I’ve always felt it’s important to keep your integrity and not allow people to dictate what kind of music you should be making. Through trials and error I’ve gotten to the point where I’m back to square one now, really seeking to rediscover that initial spark of interest when I first fell in love with the music. I think it’s important for artist to stay passionate about it and never lose that spark. I’ve learned to tune out the opinions of others because at the end of the day it’s my gift. It’s my art. It’s what I want to say from my perspective, and it will literally go on to be my legacy. So I look forward to creating bodies of work from now on that are authentic and true to my nature.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
it hasn’t been a smooth road especially coming up in the social media era. Everything is about image and likeness. Sometimes you do feel pressure to create music that’s trendy as opposed to just creating from your spirit. Or even the pressure (as a woman) to be sexy. Also being a plus size woman of color doesn’t really make it any easier. Prior to us having Lizzo as a representative for that demographic, my image was my biggest battle. I felt like I wouldn’t be taken seriously and to be honest I feel like I missed out on opportunities because I did not fit a certain mold when it comes to looks it can really mess with your head. You really have to be bold and learn to own your power.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a singer/songwriter, Producer, rapper and aspiring actress. I’m proud to say I started producing my own music 20 years ago before female producers were so common. I have a lot of 90s R&B influence so I incorporate a lot of harmonies and vocal stacks in my arrangements, which I think has become a signature sound for me. Also, I love that some people call me to sing on a record, but some people call me to rap on a record. I’m very versatile musically I think that’s my superpower.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
I wish I would’ve trusted my inner voice. I know exactly who I was. I knew exactly what I was doing. I knew who my inspirations were and I knew that I wanted to aim to be as great as them somewhere along the way, I allowed outside voices to steer me away from my vision. Never let anyone tell you how to use your gift. That’s between you and God. Stay humble and trust your gut. Create for the love of it. Don’t be afraid to release your stuff, your gifts are for the world. As long as you stay in motion, you will always encounter the right people to help lead you to the next level.
