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Photo:  Leeor Wild

In the year that has passed since Chika released her debut project Industry Games, the Alabama singer and rapper has certainly kept herself busy. Between earning Grammy noms and ending the careers of parasitic tabloids on her off-days, Chika has balanced her time in quarantine well.  

Acclimating to her newfound fame as a member of XXL's 2020 freshman class has not kept her from honing her craft, as is evident throughout her latest EP,  ONCE UPON A TIME. With an anthemic introduction featuring BJ The Chicago Kid, Chika's newest venture sees the talented young artist employing her dynamic and clever musical style while making her way to hip-hop's main stage.

Between the modern southern-flavored bounce of "HICKORY DICKORY" and the laid-back swagger of the more R&B-leaning "FWB," Chika is not shy about showing off her incredible vocal talent and lyrical affinity. Her two-part track "CINDERELLA" even levels two contradicting styles - one confidently ambitious, the other intimately vulnerable.  

Whether singing to her narrative's female subject or gawking at the other girls hating on her, Chika's performance remains consistently airtight, demonstrating a style that sounds somehow polished and effortless at the same time. Perhaps her masterful musical ability stems partially from her own humility, as she reveals that though she stays focused with the "heart of a poet," against the lavish lifestyle of her peers she "prefer[s] just a tee and some Nikes."  

With the success of two seasoned projects and a bevy of singles under her belt, it seems that Chika's popularity in the hip-hop mainstream is long overdue. With her musical talent, outspoken personality, and strong moral compass, Chika has paved a path for herself without adhering to demoralizing trends or industry games. ONCE UPON A TIME demonstrates a uniqueness in Chika that demands your attention and a longevity that will certainly make her a star in no time.  

Listen to  ONCE UPON A TIME below: