Today we’d like to introduce you to Annika Chambers.
Hi Annika, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My name is Annika Chambers. I was born and raised in Houston, Texas. I grew up singing in the church, thanks to my Granny. My influences include Yolanda Adams, Shirley Caesar, Mahalia Jackson and Whitney Houston. I served in the U.S. Army for 7 1/2 years that included two tours. One to Iraq and one to Kosovo. I was afforded many opportunities to sing the national anthem for our military ceremonies but one of the most defining moments in my life came during my deployment in Kosovo. I was in the gospel choir on base and we entered a talent competition. I led the choir in Precious Lord with some swag and groove. We won the competition and afterwards, a guitar player approached me wanted to teach me the Blues. Being that I grew up in the church and with my grandparents, secular music wasn’t part of our household. So the day he taught me my first Blues song, I instantly fell in love but more importantly, I felt as though I found my home. That was in 2006 and I haven’t looked back.
After the deployment to Iraq in 2010, I decided to pursue my music career with the support of my military officers. In Feb 2011, I was honorably discharged. I began going to college for Corporate Communication and I also started attending Blues jams around the city. Eventually, I formed my first band and we were gigging all around Houston. It’s been quite the whirlwind and a lot of progressions. We’ve gone from giggling locally to regionally to nationally and internationally. It’s been quite a ride.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The music industry is not for the weak. I’m thankful my grandparents and the military instilled perseverance and discipline in me. You will get a lot of No’s even when you feel like you deserve Yes’s! It’s important to keep moving!
The challenges of today for me is touring through America within the racial climate. It can be very scary but we manage. I have a great band and they are very protective of me.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a Soul Blues Recording Artist. I am known for my voice and my stage presence. I am most proud of following my gut and the will to keep thriving. I’m also proud to stand up for human rights in all that it means.
I believe what sets me apart from others is the ability to make any and everyone feel at home through my music and through my voice in standing for the voiceless. I believe it is important to leave people better than to leave them bitter.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I think in whatever industry you are in it’s important to find people you look up to. I’ve attended many music conferences and awards shows. It is imperative to surround yourselves with people who will inspire, help, and be supportive as you navigate any industry.
Contact Info:
- Website: Annikachambers.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theannikachambers/
- Facebook: Annika Chambers Music
- Twitter: Bluesbaby85
- Youtube: Bluesbaby85
Image Credits
Jim Hartzell Laura Carbone
