February Artist: Rachel Chinouriri
Written by: Keyali Mikaela
Dive into the captivating world of Rachel Chinouriri, a 25-year-old indie-pop sensation whose soulful tunes and authentic storytelling have set her on a remarkable journey through the ever-evolving landscape of the music scene. Born and bred in the vibrant streets of London, Rachel's musical odyssey is a compelling narrative marked by resilience, passion, and an unwavering dedication to her craft.
Rachel first graced the digital stage with her TikTok hit and debut single, "So My Darling." What initially started as a simple acoustic rendition soon blossomed into a viral sensation, resonating with over 134,000 viewers and catapulting her into the limelight. The song's intimate lyrics, intertwined with soft-spoken guitar melodies, showcased Rachel's unique ability to infuse genuine emotions into her music, creating a resonant chord with a diverse audience.
In her previous single, "The Hills," Rachel takes a departure from the personal and directs her affection not towards an individual but a place. This track serves as a heartfelt ode to her British homeland, offering a glimpse into the emotional landscape of the Hollywood Hills neighborhood in Los Angeles, where she resided until recently. The powerful lyrics, accompanied by surging electric guitar riffs, encapsulate Rachel's cathartic journey of self-discovery and the profound realization that home is where the heart truly belongs.
Rachel's musical evolution serves as a testament to the importance of staying true to oneself despite the pressures of the industry. Despite attempts to label her as "R&B" or "urban," she stood firm in her indie roots. A brief exploration into the electronic-infused EP, "Four° in Winter," showcased her versatility, but it was the viral success of "So My Darling" that reaffirmed her commitment to the indie-pop genre.
In 2022, Rachel unveiled the EP "Better Off Without," a vibrant and captivating record delving into the theme of heartbreak after a five-year relationship. With plucky guitars, silky vocals, and catchy hooks, the EP solidified Rachel's return to her indie-pop roots. Singles like "I'm Not Perfect (But I'm Trying)" became anthems of self-acceptance and resilience, resonating with listeners navigating their own journeys of personal growth.
Beyond the realm of music, Rachel emerged as an outspoken advocate for artistic freedom and authenticity. As a Black artist navigating genres not traditionally associated with her identity, she confronted challenges associated with being pigeonholed. However, Rachel's decision to speak out against mislabeling and industry expectations garnered widespread support from fans and shed light on broader conversations within the music industry.
Reflecting on her journey, Rachel emphasizes the importance of staying true to her artistry. The anticipation builds as her debut album, titled "What A Devastating Turn of Events," prepares for release—an exploration of her experiences with influences from noughties British pop culture. Rachel aims to create an album that feels nostalgic yet authentic to her unique narrative, weaving together the threads of her life into a musical tapestry.
As she gears up for her biggest hometown show at London's iconic KOKO on March 6, 2024, Rachel Chinouriri transcends the label of a mere musician; she becomes a storyteller, a trailblazer, and a voice for those unafraid to be authentically themselves in the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry. Brace yourself for a musical journey with Rachel, where every note is a page from her life, and every lyric is a chapter in her extraordinary story.
Rachel's story unfolds against the backdrop of her London roots, where the bustling streets of the city became the canvas for her artistic expression. Born in 1998 to Zimbabwean émigré parents, Rachel is the only member of her family born in the UK. The Chinouriri family settled in Forestdale, Croydon, an area rich with greenery, grazing horses, and cul-de-sacs inhabited by elderly residents and energetic kids. However, as Rachel notes, it's also the kind of place where "everybody knows everyone, but everyone definitely knows you if you're Black."
Growing up as one of six students of color at her secondary school, Rachel faced the harsh reality of racial bullying. Her mother worked long hours, her father was unwell, and Rachel, not fluent in her parents' native language, Shona, found herself navigating the challenges of adolescence in a predominantly white environment. Yet, amidst the struggles, the Chinouriri family shared a common bond—music.
Within the confines of their home, Rachel's brother practiced the saxophone in the garden, creating a melodic backdrop. In contrast, Rachel retreated to her room, using music as a refuge from the challenges she faced. The paper-thin walls and constant admonitions to "shut up!" from her family compelled her to sing in a hushed whisper, developing a vocal style reminiscent of Elena Tonra from Daughter.
Rachel's gossamer voice became the perfect vehicle for the delicate indie-pop songs she penned. In 2018, she scored her first hit with "So My Darling," a perennial promise to love an unrequited crush-turned-friend. However, as Rachel made her face visible, she found herself subject to categorization. No longer considered strictly "indie," she was labeled as "R&B," "soul," or, more dismissively, "urban."
Undeterred, Rachel released her debut EP, "Mama's Boy," sticking to her indie roots despite the industry's attempt to redefine her. A subsequent shift toward a more electronic angle marked the EP "Four° in Winter," a period Rachel refers to as a "blessing in disguise." It was during this time that the acoustic rendition of "So My Darling" went viral on TikTok in late 2021.
After navigating the chaos of the pandemic, a tumultuous relationship, and the misinterpretation of her music, "So My Darling" became an indisputably indie showcase of Rachel's talent. It now serves as the soundtrack for over 100,000 videos on the platform, proving to Rachel that there is indeed an audience for her authentic music.
The viral success of "So My Darling" affirmed Rachel's commitment to her indie-pop roots. In 2022,
She unveiled the EP "Better Off Without," a bright and captivating record exploring the theme of heartbreak after a five-year relationship. The EP featured plucky guitars, silky vocals, and catchy hooks, marking Rachel's return to her indie-pop era.
Singles like "I'm Not Perfect (But I'm Trying)" from the EP became anthems of self-acceptance and resilience. As Rachel declares on TikTok, she has undoubtedly returned to her indie roots, embracing the genre that allows her to express herself authentically. This journey of self-discovery and reaffirmation paved the way for Rachel's highly-anticipated debut album, "What A Devastating Turn of Events," set to release in the coming months.
The album, as Rachel describes it, is a "journal" that delves into various aspects of her life. It's a sonic and emotional exploration, weaving together soundscapes and voice notes to create an immersive experience for listeners. One standout track, "Never Need Me," has become a fan favorite, with its garage rock-inspired sound evoking a sense of nostalgia reminiscent of teenage years.
In creating the album, Rachel drew inspiration from noughties British pop culture icons such as Alexa Chung, Oasis, and The Libertines. The noughties represent a period in her life where she eagerly absorbed the cultural richness around her, despite facing personal traumas. Rachel aims to reclaim her position in British society and the indie scene, challenging the routine ignorance and misrepresentation of Black womanhood.
"It's me trying to relive the place I grew up in, but also understand that those things caused me so much trauma," she explains. The juxtaposition of finding joy in the music of that era while grappling with personal hardships inspired her to create an album that feels as nostalgic as the songs that brought solace during difficult times.
As a Black artist in the indie scene, Rachel has encountered challenges that extend beyond musical categorization. The industry's tendency to pigeonhole artists based on preconceived notions often leads to a narrow representation of diversity. Rachel's decision to speak out against mislabeling and her advocacy for authenticity have resonated with fans and sparked important conversations within the music industry.
Rachel's journey took her across continents, including a life-changing stay in Hereford and a challenging trip to Los Angeles in early 2023. The LA experience, marked by a fear of flying and an isolating environment, became a crucible for her mental health. As she struggled to finish her album in the face of looming tour commitments, she found solace in a session with songwriter Aaron Shadrow, leading to the creation of the lead single, "The Hills."
"The Hills" serves as a poignant reminder of Rachel's connection to her roots and her realization that, despite the allure of distant hills, her heart belongs in the UK, surrounded by friends and family. The album's title track, "What A Devastating Turn of Events," stands as a tribute to a relative in Zimbabwe, narrating a heartbreaking story that mirrors elements of Rachel's own life.
The album, with its mix of feel-good hits and heavier themes, is deliberately structured to emulate life's unexpected twists and turns. Rachel wanted to capture the essence of receiving "life-changing, traumatizing news" out of nowhere, creating an album that hits listeners like a sudden revelation, forcing a change in perspective.
In addition to the exploration of heavier topics, the album celebrates the friendships Rachel has cultivated in the industry. The track "It Is What It Is" pays homage to national treasures Lily Allen and Kate Nash, showcasing Rachel's ability to draw inspiration from diverse influences. A voice note from Eurovision's Mae Muller adds a personal touch, highlighting the supportive community of female artists who understand each other's journeys.
As the album's narrative unfolds, it crescendos with the ballad "Pocket," a song that exudes the intimacy and warmth reminiscent of a Billie Marten composition. With twee whistles and handclaps adding nostalgic elements, the track serves as a reflection of Rachel's journey—a moment of peace, self-acceptance, and readiness for the future.
"I've always lived on edge because at any moment things can go to shit," Rachel candidly admits. However, amidst the uncertainties, she finds herself randomly taking calls with exciting news like landing the cover of NME. This recognition is not just a testament to her musical talent but also a validation of her authenticity in an industry that often demands conformity.
As Rachel Chinouriri prepares for her biggest hometown show at London's KOKO on March 6, 2024, the anticipation is palpable. She transcends the label of a mere musician, evolving into a storyteller, a trailblazer, and a voice for those unafraid to be authentically themselves. Brace yourself for a musical journey with Rachel, where every note is a page from her life, and every lyric is a chapter in her extraordinary story. In the vibrant tapestry of the music industry, Rachel Chinouriri stands as a unique thread, weaving her narrative with resilience, authenticity, and an unwavering commitment to her craft.