Meet award-winning, Groove Fiesta duo CHLKZ
With a style that blends live drumming with electronic music, CHKLZ has captivated audiences across the globe without the help of an agent. Their upcoming remix of “White Wine Spritzer” marks a creative return to their roots, blending their past heavy metal influences with an uplifting house vibe. Their surprise prime-time performance at Friendzy Fest 2023 catapulted them into stardom, promising even more electric shows worldwide. We thought it was high time IHouseU met the pair…
What did it mean to win the Phoenix New Times’ Best Dance Artist?
A: It really meant the world for us to win this in our hometown. I have been playing in bands for years in Phoenix, AZ, and have even won some Best of Phoenix awards in those bands. However, to win this award with CHKLZ means everything because it’s the first time that I am not supporting a band on the drums or percussion. Instead, this is our music and our heart and soul. And to be recognized for that and what we are doing with that award really gave us another confidence boost that we are working hard and going in the right direction.
Tell us about ‘Groove Fiesta’ – what does a track have to have to fit with this new genre?
A: We believe the key elements that define our genre of Groove Fiesta revolve entirely around heavy drums, percussion, catchy vocals, and experimental soundscapes. These sounds and intentions meld together to create a unique, uplifting experience for the listener. At heart of it, we very much believe that drums are truly the international language of the planet. It connects us to our deepest roots of music. And it evokes strong, rhythmic emotion. And drums always get people going!
We also believe in the power of focusing on the “world sound” as well. Drawing inspirations from all over the globe, our songs all have their own unique world that revolve around the red thread of our Groove Fiesta. We love house music, and know our sound is different and new to the genre. And we believe that we are diving right into the mix and shaking things up with our sound. And we couldn’t be prouder about it.
What was so inspiring about Chuckles, and how does a random encounter with a dog lead to dance music?
A: I think for me what was most inspiring about Chuckles was she quickly became an instant source of inspiration one night sitting in my living. Our entire theme and language is “Doggies!” And it’s because of her. LeMarshawn Jean suggested we spell it this way to be different and stand out. And what a great decision that was looking back today.
That dog changed my life and existence. Prior to having Charlie in my life, I can confidently say I wasn’t in the best spot in my own existence. The dog forced me to change my ways and increased my focus. It really is a “who rescued who” situation. I think without that chance encounter with that little dog, my life might be very different and I thank higher beings every day that we were able to connect. She changed my life.
And because of her, we found new approaches and new inspirations for music that I have been trying to compose since the early 2000s. And even though we had to say goodbye to her in October 2022, she still remains our muse and her spirit will live on with us forever. There would be no “Whaddup Doggies!” without her. She is our brand!
So far you haven’t worked with an agent – how have you managed that, what tips would you give other artists in the same position, and do you see yourselves working with an agent at some point in the future and why?
A: Countless hours at the computer and networking. The best advice I can give is network. Comment on a page. Shed love on people’s pages. Share their content. Send that DM. Don’t be afraid to try and build new, meaningful relationships. They will help you find your way without an agent. It’s hard work, but it’s worth it. And the best piece of advice I can give is grind everyday and set goals.
As far as working with an agent goes, we would love the help. A major goal of ours is to land a booking agent to help us book more shows than we can on our own. We will do it DIY as long as we have to, no doubt about it. However, yes we want an agent. We want to add to our already growing team.
How did your Friendzy Fest appearance come about?
A: Friendzy Fest came about from us applying to the festival and getting some help from our network to get in the Canada festival scene. We took a shot and it worked out.
You call your fans ‘Doggies’. How important is the fanbase community for you and why?
A: It’s everything to us. Community is at the focus of everything that we do. In this community we all identify as “Doggies” because anyone from anywhere and any walk of life can be a “Doggie!” In this community, we look past even modern labels to make sure all always feel welcomed in our pack!
Without a strong community, we have no relationships and no career. Our community is the lifeblood of our ecosystem. And within that community, our strongest focus always has been, and always will be, inclusivity.
We feel that music needs to create community and unite people, not divide them socially. I have never been in “the in crowd” my whole life, always feeling like I have been going against the grain because I speak and play from only from the heart! I never wanted to be a carbon copy of anyone.
I also got bullied and made fun of often growing up because I was always willing to be myself in nature. It bothered me sometimes back then, but as I grew out of caring about what other people think, I look back and realize all of those moments built me to whom I am today. And those memories serve as a main focus of our communal intentions to make people feel joy about who they are and where they come from. That what makes them unique is what makes them beautiful, no matter what walk of life people come from. And we believe that whole heartedly about our identity as artists, without question.
What does the rest of 2024 have in store for you?
A: More touring and more releases. We have our “Pawsitive Vibrations” North American Tour launching in May with dates all over the US and Canada. We also have more touring planned for the fall. So be on the look out because we are coming to a city near you soon Doggies!
