CMA POP LIFE
Throughout the August 8-10th, 2014 weekend—DJs, music fans, partygoers and sun lovers converged at the 3rd annual Splash House pool+music festival in Palm Springs. It was a site largely populated by young 20-something-year-olds who arrived in a plethora of bathing suits and shirtless bodies, from all over southern California and beyond, like a bustling whirlwind, dancing euphorically to the sounds of pulsating music and feeding off each other’s eclectic vibes. With all the frenzy percolating across its three main venues: The Hard Rock Hotel, the Saguaro and the Hacienda Cantina & Beach Club— it set the atmosphere aglow with jolt of youthful exuberance that seemed surreal…and at moments ridiculous. In a time when people say the world is going to shits by what’s happening in the news, it’s easy to feel jaded or angry once in a while. But for one epic weekend in the summer of 2014—it was a time to bask together under warm sunshine rays, to feel what it’s like to be young today, to enjoy life, to free your mind and to remind ourselves to sweat it off — hey, this is Palm Springs after all—a world within its own world.
Splash House offered a wide diversity of sounds—but Australian artists Cut Copy, Flume, Jagwar Ma and Chela made some big waves performing their own material live. Chela offered a refreshing alternative to the mostly male dominated lineup and took to the stage with Justin Goings on the drums—her exuberant performance was fun, infectious and joyous—and she showed us some pretty cool dance moves too.
INTERVIEW WITH CHELA
Can you tell us about yourself, where did you grow up, and what has inspired your music journey?
I grew up in Perth, Western Australia. We ran various family businesses from caravan parks to flower farms and moved house a lot because of it. It gave me an adventurous spirit, and that has influenced my music immensely.
How would you describe your music and the creative process of making a song?
I make pop music, the non-commercial kind. The writing process is very natural for me, I like to let ideas come to me rather than dig to find them. I take real experiences from my life and turn them into songs. It’s so much easier to commit to a song when you’ve invested your true emotion into it.
What are some themes you enjoy expressing in your music? Anything you haven’t explored yet?
There are so many little experiences and emotions here and there that I have been meaning to write about and haven’t found the perfect chance for yet! I collect my ideas as I go, that way I’ll always have something to write about. Sometimes you can feel blank for a while and it’s good to remind yourself of things you’ve previously felt strongly about. I mostly like to bring a sense of optimism and positivity to my songs. This world is fucked up enough. It’s nice to give people a place where they can turn, to feel uplifted.
What was your first experience like at the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival?
It was mad! Especially my first night, complete madness. We had to wait 3 hours to get in because Thundercat [Stephen Bruner] accidentally stole my pass and they had to reconfigure one for me. There was a big sand storm when we first entered and I remember thinking – this looks like the world is about to end, and people call this a good time? After the storm died down a bit, it became clear to me that the festival was a wonderland after all. One of the highlights for me was the Jeremy Scott party at Frank Sinatra’s old house later that night. I was so satisfied by the way everyone was dressed, it was a treat for the eyes.
Tell us about your experience at Splash House pool+music festival in Palm Springs.
Yes, it was rather strange and wonderful! There was more body matter than water matter in the pool, people were drunk and grinding, it was ridiculous! It made for a crazy party energy, which was great for us, because the ‘vibe’ was already there for everyone to have a good time.
Did you study dance or are you self-taught?
I had many years of learning dance as a child, all sorts from tap to ballet. Then, we moved cities when I was 15 and I didn’t join another dance company. I enjoyed creating my own choreography and improvising. The beauty of improvising is finding the ability to let go and letting the music guide you. My dancing these days is a combo of all of these things.
What do you look forward to most this coming year?
Making my first EP! I’m very proud of the songs that I’ve chosen for it, and I’m looking forward to sharing them with everyone. I’m also excited about making music videos for each of the songs!
With technology and trends changing often—how do you see the future of music?
I have hope that musicians will find more ways to thrive financially and continue creating forward-thinking art using technology to their advantage. We must change with the times!
What is the most challenging aspect of the music business and what is most satisfying to you?
It’s extremely challenging being an independent artist and finding the funding to support your work. On the other end of the scale, one of the most satisfying parts of being an artist for me is receiving positive feedback on how your art has helped other people to feel joy. It always encourages me to keep going.
What helps keep you focused the most as an artist?
Remembering how lucky I am to be doing what I’m doing, and how much love and support my family have put in to give my sister and I good lives.
Hypothetical question: If you could collaborate with any artist living or dead who would it be?
Michael Jackson of course! It would be a dream to share a dance with him.
What advice do you have for aspiring artists today?
Don’t make music if you’re in it for fame and money.
ARTIST: CHELA
HOMETOWN: PERTH, WESTERN AUSTRALIA
WEB: FACEBOOK.COM/CHELAMUSIC