AFTER her last year’s six-tracker “Mixed Emotions” extended play, rising Afro-soul chanteuse Chechii, formerly known professionally as Uchechi Emelonye, has continued her sonic adventures, as can be heard on her latest Amapiano jam, “Mi Paddi”.
Her pedigree as a singer-songwriter soars in her blooming discography, which took off in 2020 with “Little Blackbird” and continued with a streak of singles: “With You”, “Underwater”, “Sunrise to Sundown”, and “Baby You”, all released between 2021 and 2023.
Her sonority and relatable lyricism are among the gems of her soul-leaning artistry, which has also earned her the BBC Music Introducing “Record of the Year (2022)” and the “New Female Artiste of the Year” at the sophomore Ladies in Media Awards in Accra.
Catching up with Guardian Life, the talented musician shares her journey within the world of music so far, detailing her come-up experience, creative process, as well as her mission to continue spreading cheer with her music.
Tell us how you discovered your love for music
I’ve been surrounded by music since day one. Thanks to my parents, I grew up immersed in the music of the 80s and 90s on long family road trips and under the magical charm of Disney Channel musicals. The experience sparked a bold curiosity to tap into the pure joy music brings. In school, I participated actively in every musical and talent show and sang at church, which led me to develop a deep appreciation for the art of creation. Learning piano and guitar then transformed a casual interest into a full-blown passion. It wasn’t until I discovered music’s power to unlock and process deep human emotions that I truly found my calling. Whether dealing with the bittersweet pangs of love and heartbreak or the ache of never having one place to truly call home due to growing up in more than six different countries, music has been my constant companion. Today, I just like to share that unfiltered energy through every note and lyric, hoping to reach people’s hearts and have my melodies imprint on their souls.
What is your creative process?
I’m endlessly inspired by the things that make us beautifully, unapologetically human. These elements range from the rawness to nature’s quiet magic. My melodies are shaped mainly by my lived experience and the stories of those around me. Songwriting is a deeply intentional process: once I land on a direction or topic, the melodies rise naturally, like a wave I must ride. I usually start with the chorus, the heart of the song, and the message that I want people to walk away humming. The verses then weave in context, details, and the soul. I write music like stories because that’s how I experience life: in chapters, moments, and moods. Playing instruments like the piano and guitar adds another layer of freedom. It allows me to push boundaries, blend genres, and follow whatever direction I feel led toward in that moment. One day, it might be a soulful ballad, and the next, it might be an upbeat afropop banger. Occasionally, I invite my fans or top listeners into this process, asking them to submit topics they’d love to hear me write about. I believe a powerful way to stay connected and grounded in what matters is shared experiences, human connection, and creativity. I don’t think in boxes. I create from everything, for everyone, and I love that freedom.
Your last record, Mixed Emotions, gave us an immersive experience into your soul/R\&B fusion. What inspired that record?
The inspiration behind my Mixed Emotions EP came from both my experiences and the stories that have been shared with me. If there’s one thread that runs through my entire discography, it’s the idea of life’s journey. At the point in life when I wrote Mixed Emotions, I was right in the middle of navigating the highs and lows that come with young adulthood. Each track attempts to tap into a different emotional stop along that path. There’s love in “First Time,” heartbreak in “Foolish,” an identity crisis in “Margins,” growth and self-discovery in “My Time,” and the need to let go, have fun, and move on in “Dance” and “Over You”, respectively. I wanted to write and sing honestly about those feelings. These feelings could be messy, beautiful, or confusing. I did this to reach people who might be feeling the same way. I hope *Mixed Emotions* offers listeners comfort, joy, and a reminder that they’re not alone during some of life’s most chaotic and defining years.
Who were some of your earliest influences?
Some of my earliest musical influences were Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, and Madonna. These women didn’t just sing; they set the standard. Their voices were rich with soul, strength, and something eternal. As I grew older, I gravitated towards emotional depth, finding new inspiration in artists such as Adele, Asa, and Tems, whose soulful storytelling resonated deeply with me. But there’s also a playful, pop-loving side of me that lives for movement, melody, and the magic of a catchy hook. I also listen to icons like Miley Cyrus, Lady Gaga, and Britney Spears. It’s that duality I love exploring in my music. I like to call it the soul and the sparkle; I own both depth and the dance floor.
Who are some Nigerian contemporaries you would likely collaborate with?
See, I’m always imagining and looking forward to all the possibilities. The spaces my voice could live in and the artists I could create magic with. But I’d love to hear what I sound like on a track with Victony or Omah Lay. For my more playful, uptempo side, I can see myself teaming up with Ayra Starr or Rema to create the ultimate earworm. A summer jam that gets stuck in your head and makes you want to dance, no matter your mood. Then, if I’m leaning into my soulful side, I think there’s beautiful potential in blending my voice with artists like Chike, Joeboy, Fireboy DML, or Tems. Something about their storytelling and emotional tone feels aligned with the kind of honesty I love to bring into my own sound.
What’s your favourite part of your artistry?
My favourite part is that I have no limits on my creativity. Growing up across different countries, constantly moving and adapting, taught me to be fluid, like a chameleon. But I don’t blend in to fit in. I blend in colourfully, using my flair to redefine spaces on my terms. I then channel this energy directly into my music. My sound isn’t boxed in by genre; it’s guided by feeling. I believe music, like life, isn’t black and white. It is layered, unpredictable, and alive. So when fans listen to my discography, they’re not just hearing songs but taking a journey. You might not always know what genre to expect next, but one thing will always stay the same: a catchy tune that lingers in your mind and leaves you feeling something.
Tell us more about your upcoming releases
I’ve been in the studio since the year began. I have been creating and collaborating with some insanely talented producers and creatives to bring you the next evolution of my sound. This new chapter reflects everything I’ve been soaking in since moving back to Nigeria full-time. You’ll hear the growth, the rhythm, and the roots: all the little lessons and big moments woven into each beat. But don’t get it twisted; not every track is deep and introspective. Life’s meant to be lived, so fun, vibes, and pure enjoyment are in the mix. This music is more Nigerian—more me, more Chechii. Expect a sound that’s grounded and vibey. You know I love to give you a little bit of everything, and this time, it’s coming even bigger.
What are some of your favourite pastimes?
If you think I have difficulty sticking to one genre, wait till you hear about my hobbies. I can do anything under the sun, proudly calling myself an all-star, all-rounder. You’ll probably find me deeply engaged in sports such as volleyball, football, track and field, or roller skating when I’m not making music or playing instruments. But other times, I’m a total bookworm and still pull all-nighters to finish a good read. I’m also a serial binge-watcher (yes, I have seen that show you’re thinking of), and I love staying in tune with the latest fashion trends. Sometimes, I even indulge in creating my items through sewing or crocheting. Honestly, I could go on forever, but let’s just say if the hobby exists, there’s an excellent chance I’ve already tried it or I’m about to.
What’s next for Chechii?
I’ve got more music on the way, and I couldn’t be more excited for what’s coming this year. I just dropped my first collaboration, “Mi Paddi”, with the incredibly talented Kracktwist and Samza from Sierra Leone. Trust me when I say that’s just the beginning. I’m cooking up even more collabs and building a sound that’s bolder, brighter, and ready to light up your playlists. With summer around the corner, I’m all about bringing the vibes. You can expect to see me performing at some festival stages soon, because what’s the point of making great music if we’re not dancing, vibing, and enjoying it live? Let’s just say, I’ve got big plans for total domination. And if you’re reading this, you’ve already fallen under Chechii’s magic. Welcome to the world where it’s all good music and good energy.
