Words-Art Jefferson
Photography-Victor Spinelli
If anyone has ever taken a pilgrimage to Ibiza, Spain, chances are they have come across the singer and model Chantae’ Vetrice. Whether in magazines, singing on the new Takers track “Let It Go” or in some of Ibiza’s most popular clubs, she is unmistakeable with her shaved, curled mohawk hair, thin, toned frame and beautiful look that pretty much forces anyone to turn around. The expat from New York City found the party island of the world quite welcoming and she’s been going full force ever since. She is currently in the studio recording new songs which incorporates an electropop sound blended with other styles of electronica. If you think you’re seeing a lot of her now, just wait…
AJ-You’re originally from New York City. When did you relocate to Ibiza, Spain and what motivated you to make that transistion?
CV-I moved to Ibiza in September of 2010 and I must say it was one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life. I’ve always wanted to live in Europe and the opportunity presented itself so, I ran with it. My boyfriend is an internationally known photographer who use to frequent Ibiza in the summers. He persuaded me to move, so I did.
AJ-Ibiza has been the clubbing capital of the world for years. As a singer, talk about the influences of club music in relations to the music that you’re currently recording.
CV-Well, I have been a fan of electronic music when electro was “underground” so, this style is nothing new to me. When I was living in Atlanta for a while, around 2004, I was pursuing this style and many producers did not know what to do with me (lol). The music I am recording now is still pop but with heavy electro influence and dubstep. However, I’m a huge lover of rock so, you will see that aspect as well.
AJ-The one thing that has been pretty controversial in terms of the scene in Ibiza is the recent act of bringing Hip-Hop artists to perform on the island. Some people have stated that this will change the overall atmosphere of the clubbing scene. What are your thoughts regarding this new trend?
CV-Honestly, I see Hip-Hop acts coming there as a business move. The money is there to perform and they want to make it so, more power to them. However, I don’t really believe the Hip-Hop element should be in Ibiza. Ibiza is known for the free love, hippie lifestyle which is completely opposite of the values of Hip-Hop. I don’t see Hip-Hop taking over the club scene there because at the end of the day, 90% of the people who come there are true lovers of real electronic and house music with the Balearic beat. I never knock anyone’s hustle but it will be impossible for Hip-Hop to change the overall scene there.
AJ-You’re singing on the Takers’ track “Let It Go”. Tell me about that collaboration and how did it come about?
CV-I did the Matinee Amnesia trailer for Summer 2011 and got along well with the video director. Months later I got a phone call asking if I’d want to sing on the track. They were looking for a more international sound that would crossover here. I totally agreed and they flew me to Barcelona, where it was recorded. It was a magical experience working with them.
AJ-As a model, it seems that moving to Ibiza really enabled you to somewhat be free in terms of your fabulous look. What differences have you found with modeling in Ibiza versus New York City which is the fashion capital of America.
CV-People in Ibiza, including other countries in Europe where I’ve traveled, love my look. I’m a thin but sexy girl so, it worked. However, back home in NYC I’m not tall enough and for other jobs, I’m not “thick” enough. I found where I “belong”, I guess (lol). I felt free to just be, fabulously, me and not feel like I had to be ashamed of not fitting into this idealistic but unrealistic image.
From meeting Vincent McDoom and Babacar Prive who are famous in the fashion world, internationally, and featuring me in their television show La Foulle Route (based in Paris). Also, shooting the music video for David Guetta, Timbaland, and Pitbull’s “Pass at Me” and The Wanted (UK band) “Glad You Came”. To making it into Elle Magazine with Ibiza Rocks. It has been an amazing experience.
AJ-Finally, what material are you working on and what can we expect musically in terms of sounds. Will you be recording more club and house material or an overall mixture?
CV-Right now, I am working with Grand Staff Productions (Chris Brown, Fabulous, Amber Rose, etc) on a few tracks. We just recorded an amazing song called “Lights Out” that is a cool mix of electro-pop and dubstep. Also, I am working with SirPaul, who is an amazing artist and songwriter. We will be doing a music video very soon for one of my songs so, please keep your eyes and ears open. I’m just recording music that feels right for me and will show the world my true talents. I want women, like myself, to understand that we can do anything despite all the roadblocks in our way. The sky is the limit and the world is ours.
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