Cheyenne Blunt
Finding Her Voice: Cheyenne Blunt on Family, Influences, and the SoundCloud Era
In the latest episode of "Enseñarte," hosted by Mark Velázquez on Radio Santa Ana, listeners are treated to an inspiring conversation with emerging artist Cheyenne Blaunt, also known as Chey. The interview dives deep into Cheyenne's musical journey, her family influences, and the impact of the digital music landscape on her creative expression.
Cheyenne's love for music is deeply rooted in her upbringing. "Some of my first memories kind of revolve around music," she shares, recalling how her parents, who had her at a young age, surrounded her with various sounds. Whether it was MTV's Total Request Live or her mom cleaning the house with the radio on, music was a constant presence. Her aunts, too, played a crucial role when they introduced her to songs on their iPods, showcasing different musical genres that shaped her eclectic taste.
The arrival of the SoundCloud era marked a pivotal moment for Cheyenne. "It was just a very inspirational point for a lot of young artists," she explains, reflecting on how the platform allowed anyone to share their music from their bedroom. During this time, she found herself particularly inspired by Lil Peep. "He was doing something that I would love to do, and it reached so many people," she notes, emphasizing how this realization fueled her ambition.
As Cheyenne navigated her creative path, she explored various musical instruments. Drawing from her time in high school band and her self-taught skills in guitar and piano, her foundation in music theory emerged. Yet, she admits that she prefers working solo, stating that distractions often hinder her creative flow. "If I have an idea, I'm easily distracted," she confesses, making it clear that her home environment serves as her creative sanctuary.
Live performances have also left an indelible mark on her art. Cheyenne recalls attending Kendrick Lamar's Big Steppers tour and how it inspired her with its energy and artistry. "I was like, wow, this is an entertainer," she said, highlighting the infectious atmosphere and the mesmerizing way Kendrick commanded the stage.
Family continues to play a vital role in Cheyenne's life and work. She credits her grandfather and father’s love for jazz as a major influence on her creative identity. "I feel like jazz is a good reset for me," she says, noting how the genre provides her with emotional sustenance and inspiration when she needs it most.
As the conversation shifts towards representation in music, Cheyenne articulates her thoughts on the current landscape. "People just love to hear a good story, your own story," she reflects, emphasizing the importance of artists embracing their roots. She believes that visibility can pave the way for the next generation, allowing for greater understanding and acceptance through music.
Yet, she acknowledges the complexities of the industry, particularly the rise of influencers entering the music scene. While she appreciates the opportunity for diverse voices, she also expresses concerns about the potential oversaturation of the market by those who may not share the same passion for the craft.
Concluding the interview, Cheyenne shares her aspirations for the future, revealing ongoing work on new music and her desire to continually evolve as an artist. "It's about finding that creative muscle and flexing it," she remarks, highlighting her commitment to personal and artistic growth.
To experience Cheyenne Blunt's journey, listeners can follow her on social media and check out her music as she carves out her unique space in the industry. From familial influences to the transformative power of digital platforms, Cheyenne's story showcases the heart and soul of a dedicated artist in today's dynamic music landscape.
