A Chat with Chechii (06.06.25)
Chechii is no stranger to movement across borders, genres, and stages of self. Having lived on three continents and reinvented herself artistically along the way, the rising Afropop artist brings a global sensibility to everything she touches. Her latest track, ‘Mi Paddi’ is a celebration of friendship, cultural connection, and personal growth. We speak with Chechii about ‘Mi Paddi’ and much more.
OSR: You’ve lived on three continents. How has that shaped who you are, not just as an artist, but as a person?
Chechii: Throughout my life, I’ve had the privilege of living in over six countries across three continents. Moving every couple of years meant constantly stepping into new worlds filled with different sounds, languages, and cultures. That kind of upbringing shaped me deeply, not just as an artist, but as a person. It gave me a unique perspective and a natural adaptability. I’ve learned how to blend in, stand out, and find common ground all at once. That versatility shows up in my music. Every note I sing carries pieces of the places I’ve called home. I like to think my sound is a rich, diverse tapestry of global experiences, and that continues to fuel my creativity and passion. It’s also made collaboration second nature to me. I’m so comfortable interacting with others, sharing ideas, and creating together, because I’ve had to build new connections everywhere I’ve gone. Beyond that, it’s matured me. Living through such a range of experiences has helped shape my perspective, and that maturity comes through in the themes I explore: growth, personal journeys, social issues, and love. These aren’t just songs, they’re reflections of a life lived across cultures.
OSR: You’ve rebranded from Uchechi Emelonye to Chechii. What prompted that shift, and what does this new identity represent for you?
Chechii: The shift from Uchechi Emelonye to Chechii came from a need to reinvent myself musically. I’ve grown so much since where I first started, and this rebrand is a bold statement of that evolution. Chechii marks a significant milestone because it’s the beginning of a new chapter that reflects a more confident, refined, and fearless version of myself, excited to create. Chechii is short, sweet and unforgettable. I carry this same energy into my music, where I create catchy feel-good melodies that stick with you. But beyond the sound, I’ve been putting in the work behind the scenes to sharpen my skills and develop my artistry. I want people to discover me and find out I’ve got everything they are looking for.
OSR: You collaborated with Kracktwist and Samza on this song. How did that connection happen, and what was the creative process like across borders?
Chechii: The creative process for ‘Mi Paddi’ was mostly online, which still amazes me that I’m able to collaborate with incredible artists across borders without ever being in the same room. It’s a testament to how far we’ve come in music and technology. Working with Kracktwist and Samza was seamless. They’re both incredibly talented and experienced, and since they were formerly a duo, their chemistry was already so strong. ‘Mi Paddi’ marked a special moment for them, as it brought them back together musically. They’ve always been some of Sierra Leone’s biggest stars, so it was a real honour to be part of that story. In many ways, ‘Mi Paddi’ brought old friends back together and created new ones in the process, which makes it even more meaningful to me.
OSR: Your music feels like a passport, each song stamped with a different emotional or cultural experience. If ‘Mi Paddi’ had a passport of its own, which countries or emotions would be stamped in it?
Chechii: ‘Mi Paddi’ would definitely be a dual citizen of Nigeria and Sierra Leone. Why choose one when you can have both? And I say that not just because that’s where we’re from, but because those countries are home to some of the friendliest, most vibrant people you’ll ever meet. Ask anyone with a Nigerian best friend! They’ll probably tell you they’ve got the best friend in the world. Both cultures are rooted in warmth, community, and unwavering support, and that energy is woven right into the fabric of this song. If ‘Mi Paddi’ had a passport full of emotions, the first stamps would be joy, comfort, excitement, trust, and belonging. Those are the feelings that true friendship brings. It’s truly a song that celebrates the bonds that make life brighter.
OSR: There’s a real sense of joy in ‘Mi Paddi’, but it’s also layered. What’s something about the song, whether in the lyrics, production, or story behind it, that listeners might miss on the first listen?
Chechii: I think one thing listeners might miss on the first listen is the meaning behind some of the lyrics, especially since a lot of the song is in Sierra Leonean Pidgin English. But that’s actually part of the beauty of ‘Mi Paddi’, it invites you into a whole new world of language and culture. You’re not missing out, but instead you’re being welcomed into something vibrant and new. Take the word ‘paddi’ in the title and chorus, for example. It means ‘friend,’ but it’s more than that, it’s a warm, fun, endearing way to refer to your bestie. So, for listeners who are new to this genre or dialect, it’s a chance to learn, connect, and maybe even adopt a new favourite word. That layered meaning adds another level of joy to the track because it makes it more than just a dancing track.
OSR: Your sound blends Afrobeat, Pop, and RnB with such fluidity. How would you describe your genre or sonic identity in your own words?
Chechii: I’d describe my sound as a fusion of Afropop, Soul, R&B, and Afrobeat. All blended in a way that feels fluid and true to who I am. My music is shaped by a global upbringing, having lived in so many countries across three continents, but at its core, it carries a deeply African voice. As Chechii, I create music that’s raw, intentional, and emotionally resonant. Whether it’s joy, heartbreak, or growth, I want my songs to reflect the full spectrum of the human experience. My sound is about more than just genre. It’s about connection. With every track, I aim to move people, uplift them, and remind them they’re not alone.
OSR: This track feels lighter and more upbeat than some of your previous songs, like ‘Underwater’. Was that shift intentional?
Chechii: Yes, the shift was definitely intentional. I think it’s just as important to make joyful, uplifting songs as it is to create sad ones that help people through tough times. It’s a reflection of my versatility as an artist. I want to show that I can do both and do them well. Right now, I’m in a genuinely happy place in my life, and naturally, that joy is spilling over into my music. So if you hear a track like ‘Mi Paddi’ and feel the good vibes, that’s real. On the flip side, if I ever drop another emotional ballad like ‘Underwater,’ feel free to send me a virtual hug! But that’s the beauty of creativity, isn’t it? Once I pour my emotions into a melody, I’ve processed them. It’s my way of letting go and holding space for whatever comes next.
OSR: Can you walk us through a specific moment in the studio or writing process that really defined this song?
Chechii: I think people underestimate the power of getting the right take, it’s not just about hitting the notes. It is about making sure the emotion comes through and really connects with people. When I was in the studio recording ‘Mi Paddi’, I made it a point to have a lot of fun. A lot of my takes happened right after my producer and I cracked a joke or did a silly dance to the track. I made sure to step into the booth with a smile every time. That positive energy is what the song is all about. Mi Paddi is about the fun of friendship, and I think that vibe really came through in the recording because we were genuinely having a good time while making it.
OSR: Outside of music, what brings you joy or fuels your creativity right now?
Chechii: Outside of creating music and playing my instruments, I’m often in full-on athlete mode. I’ve played competitive volleyball for over six years, and lately, I’ve been diving into archery and kickboxing. Apparently, I’m not bad at it, so don’t be surprised if you see me throwing punches in the ring one day and performing on stage the next! I also love to read. I’m always curious and eager to learn, and books always fuel my imagination and increase my possibilities. My hobbies are all over the place, from crochet to Zumba. Basically, if it’s enjoyable or calming, I’ve either done it or plan to try it soon. I thrive on keeping things fresh and exciting. But what really fills my cup is spending quality time with the people I care about. I live for those colourful, real-life experiences that end up inspiring my songs. Like dancing at day parties, swimming in wild spots, BBQs, festivals, and laid-back hangouts with friends and family. Those memories are what fuel my creativity the most.
OSR: Looking ahead, how does ‘Mi Paddi’ set the tone for what’s next in your artistic journey?
Chechii: ‘Mi Paddi’ sets the tone for a new era in my music. One that celebrates fun and joy, something we could all use a little more of, given the world today. For the rest of the year, expect the unexpected from Chechii. I’m evolving my sound by bringing fresh perspectives while staying true to the signature style my fans know and love: relatable, sweet, and irresistibly catchy. This year is all about growth and momentum. I plan to create more, perform more, and deliver unforgettable moments that fans won’t want to miss. If last year got you excited, just wait the rest of 2025 with me will keep you entertained.
Many thanks to Chechii for speaking with us. Find out more about Chechii on her Instagram and Spotify.
