New York City has always been a melting pot of cultures, a place where identities blur and stories intertwine. For CHI/MA, a rising artist in the music scene, the concept of roots is elusive. Having lived in five different states throughout his life, CHI/MA (Instagram) feels untethered, with no specific area to call home. It is this sense of fluidity and constant transformation that seeps into his artistry, creating a unique and captivating sound.
“I’m originally from New York City and my family moved around a lot so I’ve lived in 5 different states about 4 years each… I don’t even feel like I’m from a specific area. No roots type of background,” CHI/MA explains, highlighting the nomadic nature of his upbringing.
Derived from his first name Chima, CHI/MA carries a symbolic meaning. “It’s just like my first name Chima, I just put a slash in the middle to emphasize the split between my mind, thoughts, and mannerisms that reside within me… I feel like two radicals in one body,” he passionately describes, shedding light on the duality that fuels his artistic expression.
When asked about his sound, CHI/MA eagerly expresses, “I would currently describe my sound to new readers as a hyperactive, trippy, slightly psychedelic and explosive take on new age hip hop or trap.” His music is a fusion of genres, pushing boundaries and igniting a sense of exploration within the listeners.
Reflecting on his creative journey, CHI/MA reveals, “Recently I’ve finally had the opportunity to sit down and really create music the way I wanted to… I fell in love with the art of creation. I like to make things. I have a control freak aspect to my character, and I feel like music is the only safe place to express that darker impulse, so it’s enlightening, engaging, and therapeutic to a sense.” The freedom to create authentically has been a transformative experience for CHI/MA, allowing them to channel his innermost desires and emotions.
In terms of musical influences, CHI/MA draws inspiration from a wide range of artists. “Travis Scott, Playboi Carti, Offset, Desiigner, Young Thug, and Rae Sremmurd,” he lists, acknowledging the impact these artists have had on his creative psyche. By embracing diverse influences, CHI/MA seeks to expand his artistic palette and explore new artistic territories.
His current release, “Middle School,” holds a profound personal meaning for CHI/MA. He explains, “Well, ‘Middle School’ is my current release… It’s a light and easily going song full of high energy and a raw radiating vibe.” The track serves as a subconscious confession, shedding light on his experiences and self-realization during that transformative stage of life.
As “Middle School” makes its official debut, CHI/MA eagerly awaits feedback, stating, “I hope people listen to the song and feel like he can laugh at the hardship they’ve gone through, accepting it and moving past it… I want them to basically use my experience as a reference of how to do that.” His music serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring listeners to overcome challenges and grow from his own experiences.
Looking ahead, CHI/MA has exclusive songs dropping on SoundCloud and another official release in approximately two months. “No official release dates yet, but stay tuned!” he exclaims, hinting at the exciting projects on the horizon.
CHI/MA’s ultimate message is one of resilience and personal transformation. “I hope people listen to the song, feel like they can laugh at the hardship they’ve gone through.”
In the meantime, check out his catalog below.
