Today we’d like to introduce you to Chanel Holly.
Hi Chanel, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Born and bred in the laid-back vibes of San Clemente, California, music was as much a part of my upbringing as the salty sea breeze. Family gatherings meant impromptu jam sessions, with guitars and laughter filling the air.
My roots in music run deep, fueled by the stories of my grandpa’s musical escapades in the 1930s. His legacy lit a fire within me, pushing me to carve out my own path in the world of melodies and rhythms.
In 2019, seeking new adventures, I found myself drawn to the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas. Little did I know that this move would coincide with a global pause, courtesy of the pandemic. With the world on hold, I took a leap of faith, diving headfirst into my passion for songwriting.
Under the alias ‘Hazel Sky,’ I collaborated with EDM producers Alex Cortes and The Wavez, releasing my debut single, “Simple Moments,” in September 2021. But my hunger for creative control pushed me further. Armed with determination and a DIY spirit, I transformed my living space into a studio, teaching myself the ins and outs of production, mixing, and mastering.
One viral video changed everything. A simple clip of me recreating a classic hit struck a chord with millions, propelling me into the spotlight as a content creator and musician. Embracing my true identity as Chanel Holly, I’ve since released five singles, each one a testament to the journey that brought me here.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It’s been anything but a smooth road, to be honest. The path I’ve walked has been a winding one, fraught with its fair share of bumps, detours, and unexpected potholes. Balancing the demands of a job, particularly one as dynamic and demanding as bartending, while pursuing my passion for music has often felt like walking a tightrope without a safety net.
But amidst the struggle of juggling these worlds, another challenge emerged—one that was perhaps even more daunting: the pressure of social media. In an age where likes and shares hold immense power, the constant battle to capture attention in the digital realm became a relentless adversary. Each post, each upload, felt like a gamble with the ever-changing algorithms, leaving me anxiously refreshing my feed, hoping for validation in the form of engagement.
The fear of falling behind, of being forgotten in the endless stream of content, added another layer of pressure to an already precarious balancing act. And as rejection became a familiar companion in both the music industry and the digital sphere, self-doubt, and perfectionism only intensified, whispering insidious lies about my worth and abilities.
But amidst the struggles and setbacks, there were also moments of triumph and growth. Each hurdle, whether internal or external, forced me to confront my fears and insecurities head-on. It was through perseverance and resilience that I learned to silence the voices of doubt and embrace the imperfections that make me human.
So no, it hasn’t been a smooth road by any means. But in hindsight, I wouldn’t trade the journey for anything. Every stumble, every setback, has shaped me into the person and artist I am today. And while the road ahead may still be filled with challenges, I face it with a newfound sense of confidence and determination, knowing that I am capable of weathering whatever storms may come my way.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a multifaceted artist, diving into various realms of music creation and content curation. Primarily, I’m known for my unique approach to recreating popular songs. As a singer, songwriter, and music producer, I take old classics and breathe new life into them, meticulously reproducing every aspect while adding my own creative twist. What sets my content apart is not just the final product but the journey I take my audience on.
Through video documentation, I provide a behind-the-scenes look at the entire process, breaking down each step and offering insights into my creative decisions. It’s more than just music production—it’s about sharing my passion, knowledge, and experiences with my audience, inviting them to join me on this creative adventure.
What I’m most proud of is my journey of self-taught music production. From initially diving into the world of production with little more than determination and a desire to learn, I’ve now released over five songs across various platforms. It’s a testament to the power of perseverance and self-belief, proving that with dedication and passion, anything is possible.
But beyond my technical skills and accomplishments, what truly sets me apart is my authenticity. I believe that my voice, both literal and metaphorical, is my greatest asset. I strive to be genuine and transparent in everything I do, from my music to my interactions with my audience. It’s this authenticity that resonates with people, forging genuine connections and creating a loyal fanbase.
In essence, I specialize in creating content that not only entertains but also educates and inspires. I’m known for my ability to reimagine familiar songs in a fresh and exciting way, and I’m proud to have carved out a unique niche for myself in an industry that can often feel oversaturated. Moving forward, I’m excited to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity, sharing my passion for music with the world, and hopefully inspiring others to pursue their own artistic dreams.
How do you think about luck?
Luck, both good and bad, has certainly played a significant role in my journey as an artist and content creator. There have been moments when luck seemed to be on my side, opening doors and presenting opportunities that I never could have anticipated. These fortunate breaks have propelled me forward, providing me with invaluable experiences and connections that have helped shape my career.
Conversely, there have also been instances where luck appeared to be against me, throwing unexpected challenges and setbacks in my path. These moments of adversity tested my resilience and forced me to adapt and grow in ways I never thought possible. While these experiences were undoubtedly difficult at the time, they ultimately strengthened my resolve and deepened my appreciation for the journey.
However, I firmly believe that luck is only one piece of the puzzle. Success in any endeavor requires a combination of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. While luck may open doors, it’s up to me to step through them and make the most of the opportunities presented. And in the face of adversity, it’s my determination and resilience that ultimately determine my ability to overcome obstacles and continue moving forward.
So, while luck has certainly played a role in my life and business, it’s been my unwavering commitment to my craft and my willingness to embrace both the highs and lows of the journey that have truly propelled me towards success.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/Chanelholly
- Instagram: @chanel.holly
- Youtube: @chanelhollymusic
Image Credits
Laurel Michelle Photography
