Chayla Hope on “High,” Celebrity Mixers, and Brilliant Branding

Photo by Lindsay Poyar

Let’s face it: there are a lot of tepid vocalists today who hide behind studio gimmicks. But that’s not the case with Chayla Hope, whose voice has incredible power and precision at the same time. She reminds me a lot of Suzanne Palmer, who had a 2005 club hit with a remake of Company B’s “Fascinated.”

Although Chayla’s new single “High” features a riveting vocal, the song itself is instantly infectious. The same is true for her previous singles, including the captivating “Love In Lo-Fi.” You can see why fans are clamoring for the release of Hope’s debut album Damn, Feelings this fall.

Very few singers today can compete with dynamo legends like Annie Lennox, Alison Moyet and Adele, but Chayla Hope has the talent to join that select club.

You have a fabulous voice! What artists (all-time or current) would you like to duet with?

Thank you so much!! I’d love to sing with any of my artistic influences: Jeff Buckley, Kate Bush, Christine and the Queens, Masego, Robyn, or Sam Smith.

What’s your favorite musical act all-time from Cleveland, a city that has given us The Raspberries, Nine Inch Nails and many more?

Chrissie Hynde of the Pretenders, who was born in Akron, OH, is a complete badass. I went with someone famous because I don’t want to hurt any of my musician friends in town. There’s so much talent here!

Your new songs were mixed by Josh Gudwin, who has worked with Dua Lipa and Justin Bieber. How did you meet him?

After hearing “Hush” by The Marías, who I actually just opened for, I had my manager Teddy Eisenberg reach out and make the connection. Josh is one of the best mixers and vocal producers alive right now and it was an absolute privilege to hear him bring my songs to life.

Who came up with the absolutely brilliant idea to “co-brand” your songs? (Shway rolling papers for “High” etc.)

My manager. He and I are always looking for new ways to reach potential new fans and we love partnering with local businesses to spotlight creatives and entrepreneurs. We have a couple exciting ones coming up around the release of my debut album Damn, Feelings this October, so stay tuned!