Chiefy00 – ‘Self Devised’

Self Devised by Chiefy00 is a 4-track EP inclined to open your heart. Urging all walks of life to lead with positivity rather than animosity and narcissism, the rapper uses diverse flows to spread awareness about the current social landscape. Chiefy00 also scatters transparent bars within each record. Because of this, listeners get a deeper understanding of Chiefy’s worldly views and values. The themes found in Self Devised analyze the profoundness of loyalty, love, and staying solid. Sonically, the project draws from neo-soul and hip-hop. 

One record, in particular, samples “Halfcrazy” by Musiq Soulchild. The song is called “It’s Not Over.”

“It’s Not Over” finds Chiefy00 exposing the current music scene. Rather than speak on violence, the MC denotes that more bars should come from the heart. As the song progresses, he advises others to express gratitude. 

“We still here so cherish time/Better shit to do/Than think of dying/Been there before/Don’t think I’m lying/This happy-go-smile/Go good with hiding,” he spits. 

From there, Chiefy00 details one of the darkest moments he’s experienced before telling others to be careful of the company they keep around. Finally, he tells others who are losing hope not to give up because better days are ahead. 

“Fuck homies, they never there/When you need it/How you feel’s a secret/Guess shit, shouldn’t be this way/They try to save you,” he raps. “Way too late/Double O need a double take/Cause we kill ourselves/And say its fate.” 

 

Natalee Gilbert got a chance to interview Chiefy00, which you can read below:

How does your new project differ from your previous work?

This new project differs from previous work due to more experience and thought put into these songs. When I first started rapping all I did was overthink, I either said too much and run off beat or would finish a song feeling like I didn’t say everything I wanted to. In Self Devised, there’s better execution of emotion I’m displaying on each track. 

How would you describe the theme in your project per say?

Intention. I put myself into this body of work because I’ve made goals to better myself every day, there’s an action that has to be taken with that. Self Devised’s cover has a theme of a hangman featuring a microphone cord, not for surface-level reasons but because hip hop and music in general are what I live and die for. I’m not speaking death, this is a statement that after doing what I love at the top of my ability and at the top of my class, I’ll leave on my terms. 

Favorite song to record from your project? 

Lost in Thought was my favorite song to record. Not only did it feel great to get off my chest, once I got to the short interlude where I speak on personal connections, I originally left it blank. My recording engineer said, “Yo, this reminds me of my favorite rappers like Juelz Santana, this the spot they would pause at and talk their shit”. Punched in without a moment to think, then said what I felt, and it just felt perfect. 

Three things you need while in the studio:

Space to take risks, creative & experienced input, and I keep a checklist of recording tips to make sure I hit every element a song may need. 

Explain your creative process:

Funny enough, I’m usually starving whenever I’m in the flow of writing a new song. It’s something about the literal hunger to succeed that brings about my best writing. I’ll find me a beat whether in the stash or on youtube and after an hour of sitting with my notebook open I’ll either have an incredible 24-bar verse or a simple 2-minute bop. I prefer being alone while creating, it’s easier to vibe without external energies as an influence. Once I’m satisfied with my work, I finally relax with food and anime. 

An artist you’d like to collaborate with?

I’d like to collab with Russ. Russ is such a masterful pioneer of the independent scene, I feel like one session could definitely unlock another piece of my potential. 

Any upcoming projects or singles?

Nothing’s set in stone yet, but I’m looking forward to making another EP or two for the winter season. Until then, please keep Self Devised on replay because the discography is only getting better and this is the standard. 

Advice for new artists:

First, hold your passion close and never lose that feeling from your fingertips, utilize it in every step you walk because it can keep you centered. Second, always rehearse if you see yourself being a global artist; you should be working towards having the stamina and breath control for at least an hour-long performance. And third, instead of asking yourself, “what if it goes wrong,”? Ask yourself, “what if it turns out better than expected,”? 

Listen to Self Devised by Chiefy00 below: