Singer-Songwriter, and record-maker Chayla Hope, has teamed up with Initial Talk [Dua Lipa collaborator] for the release of her “Long Way” remix. Given the retro sound that “Long Way'' already exudes, the song is a tribute to the sounds of the new jack swing era, and Initial Talk’s remix pushed the song in a ‘90s house direction, referencing the sounds of the Chicago scene
in particular to unlock new melodic frontiers for Chayla’s topline vocal. A blending of talent that came to fruition naturally given their shared passion for the sounds of ‘80s and ‘90s pop, Chayla first discovered Initial Talk after hearing his remix of the Perfume Genius song “On The Floor” back in 2020. Chayla elaborates; “Long Way” is a total nod to Janet Jackson and Quincy Jones, and I knew eventually I’d want to remix the song. Initial Talk is my favorite remixer, and it’s been a dream come true to work with someone who I can check off my bucket list.”
As a queer person and former drag performer, Chayla is fully invested in pop’s ability to provide freedom and acceptance, even if only for a moment. She remembers the first time a drag queen performed one of her songs, which marked an epiphany of just how powerful her music could be. Community is everything for Chayla, as she’s played in countless bands around her hometown of Cleveland, worked in its beloved vinyl pressing plant Gotta Groove Records, and even collaborated with Saucy Brew Works on a Damn, Feelings-themed IPA named after her 2022 solo debut. An album featuring songs mixed by 12-time GRAMMY award winner Josh Gudwin [Bad Bunny, Justin Beiber, Dua Lipa], Chayla was uniquely involved in every step; returning to Gotta Groove Records to press the vinyl herself. Two versions of 7-inch vinyl were released on Valentine's day, a pink swirl and handmade Wax Mage customs, which you can purchase HERE. The Wax Mage custom sold out immediately, and there's only a few of the pink swirl left. The singles include “Love in Lo-Fi” and “High,” both featured on Damn, Feelings, and pressed in collaboration with Wax Mage Records. The pink label that adorns each is symbolic of her journey and unique to her releases with Wax Mage.
Throughout her life, Chayla has long been fascinated by the juxtaposition of happy music masking sad lyrics, and the release of “Long Way” speaks to that. An upbeat song that makes you want to dance around your living room, “Long Way,” most simply put, is about setting boundaries. Chayla states; “it’s about telling someone “hey, you can totally count on me for the most part...but don't expect me to always be around!” Having years of experience working with vinyls, Chayla hand-pressed a limited batch of records for the release of “Long Way” Initial Talk Remix. Get your copy here, while supplies last.
