Sometimes people’s hobbies help them find their way into the vinyl industry and sometimes the reverse happens! Meet Chayla Hope who did just that, she was a press operator at Gotta Groove Records, until she decided to follow her music dreams and is now a pop artist, and songwriter. If you’ve listened to the May and June The Women in Vinyl podcast episodes you may have heard her music. Chayla is a diligent student of pop, showcasing sonic versatility, and the ability to be a refuge for marginalized communities. As a queer person and former drag performer, Chayla is fully invested in pop’s ability to provide freedom and acceptance, even if only for a moment. Chayla’s debut album, Damn, Feelings, was released on vinyl via Wax Mage Records and she even had the opportunity to press it herself!

When she isn’t recording, or in the studio Chayla is hiking, gaming, snuggling with her pup, “…and vinyl nights are my favorite things!”

How did you get into your industry / What motivated you?

I’ve wanted to be a performer since I was 3 years old and have been singing as long as I can remember. Ever since I first heard Patsy Cline, I knew there was no turning back for me. Before my solo work, I cut my teeth singing in any band that would have me, spanning several genres, from Celtic metal and screamo to pop-punk and alternative rock.

What is a day in the life like?

Blissfully hectic! Some days are filled with meetings and recording vocals for cartoons and others are packed with back to back studio writing sessions and rehearsals with my incredible band. I’m also known to spend entire days designing stage sets and props by hand for photo and video content.

In your opinion what has been your favorite / the coolest thing you’ve worked on?

It’s a tie between singing the theme song for Care Bears: Unlock The Magic and my recent filmed performance with string quartet OPUS 216 at the Cleveland Museum of Art that will be featured on the deluxe version of ‘Damn, Feelings.’

What has been / is the most difficult part of your job?

The pushback. The times when people say I’m too old. The lack of stability and the growth it requires.

What advice do you have for someone wanting to get into pursuing what you’re doing?

If you have a vision don’t back down from it. When it gets really hard don’t let it stop you. Shake hands. Lots of hands. Meet people who inspire you and push you even harder towards your goals.

A lot of people don’t want to see you succeed because it makes them feel smaller. That is not on you. You can’t take everyone with you.

Are you a vinyl collector yourself? What drew you to it?

I am! I have over 3,000 records in my collection. Vinyl listening hangs are big in my home.

What types of things are happening in your industry / with vinyl that you’re excited or worried about? i.e. innovation, or trends you’re seeing.

I wish bigger artists and their representatives would look more into how a pressing plant operates so they would realize how important quality assurance is and don’t hold production up, as they often do.

Who has been influential to you and your growth as a professional in this industry?

My friends Jake Fader and Joe Tomino. They own a music licensing company and studio called Other Animal and are in a stellar band together called Hello! 3D. I have never been given more incredible advice or felt more safe and respected than I do with them. They are genuine and warm and calm spirits and I feel very fortunate to work with them.

Anything else you’d like to add; if not tell us what you’re listening to: 

Right now, Fever Ray has my heart. I just purchased their newest record on vinyl and it is wild and wonderful.

Find Chayla: 

Instagram: @chaylahope

@chaylahope 

@chayla_hope 

Website: www.chaylahope.com

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