( ENSPIRE Music ) C.H.E.S.S. Released His First Studio Album Titled “Retrograde (Moon)”
ENSPIRE Contributor: Alexandra Rivera
Chester Gregory known as C.H.E.S.S is an LA-based musician who has recently released his debut album “Retrograde (Moon)”. The album follows his critically acclaimed hit single The Doppler Effect (It’s Me) which earned him Grammy consideration. His soulful sound pays homage to his vintage influences while blending with his modern vibe. Critics have agreed its clear C.H.E.S.S performs with ease and a soulful passion.
Being no stranger to the music scene he has created a loyal audience for himself. The artist has performed on global stages including the Apollo Theater. C.H.E.S.S has received many awards, including the Joseph Jefferson and NAACP Theatre Awards. He has amassed over 180,000 followers on TikTok which is only another reason his fan base has grown. His album is raw and honest bringing to the surface the emotion that goes along with the path one takes when loving and failing.
ENSPIRE spoke with C.H.E.S.S. about his album and where he got the inspiration to pursue music.
What made you passionate about music?
Even though I’m a singer, one of my biggest influences is hip-hop. One of my favorite producers is J Dilla. His innovation and creativity inspired me to inspire me to express music in my own unique way and not try to be like anyone else.
Where would you say has been the best venue you have performed at?
I would say the world-famous Apollo Theater in New York. I won the amateur night and then the following year; I performed on the stage for a month with the Jackie Wilson Story. I was also fortunate enough to perform at the Apollo as Jimmy Early in Dreamgirls. So many legends have performed on that stage. It’s an honor to be a part of that legacy.
Who in the music industry has inspired you when creating your sound?
Besides legends like Michael Jackson, Prince, Donny Hathaway, and Stevie Wonder, I often find inspiration in independent artists such as Georgia Anne Muldrow, Micki Miller, Brik Liam, and Adam Ness. However, when I’m creating music, I zone in with my lead producers and focus on the moment. I ask myself these 2 questions. “What is the truth?” And “What does this feeling sound like?”
Where did you get the idea for the title of your new album?
My healing process of dealing with heartbreak and finding better-coping methods inspired the title. I’m a person who observes patterns and sees how all things relate to one another. Retrograde is looking back to go forward or going through the dark to find the light.
What song are you most excited for fans to hear off your album, Retrograde (Moon)?
I’m most excited to introduce my latest single, TYFYGB, I’ll let you figure out what it stands for. It’s based on a true story of….let’s just say setting boundaries for yourself.
C.H.E.S.S.’s passion for music bleeds through the lyrics in his music and fans will surely be excited for his latest single TYFYGB.
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