Chanel West Coast, renowned for her role on MTV’s “Ridiculousness,” has embarked on a new musical journey with the release of her debut country single, “Down to the Filter,” which dropped on May 8. The 37-year-old television personality and rapper has undergone significant life changes recently, including becoming a mother and transitioning away from her long-standing role on MTV.
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In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, West Coast reflected on her decision to pivot toward country music. With the birth of her daughter, Bowie, in November 2022, coupled with her engagement to model Dom Fenison in December 2022, she felt it was time for her music to mirror these transformative experiences. Having initially burst onto the music scene with her mixtape “Chanel a.k.a. CC” in 2010 and later signing with Lil Wayne’s Young Money Entertainment in 2012, her new direction in country music represents a natural evolution for her artistry.
West Coast shared that the suggestion to explore country sounds came from various people in her life. “The first time I heard myself doing a country song, I’m like, ‘Okay, this is what I should have been doing all along,'” she disclosed. This genre shift allows her to express a different and, as she describes it, “sweeter” side of herself, known as Chelsea, in contrast to her more outgoing and confident alter ego, Chanel. “Chelsea is a lot more relaxed, reserved, and chill,” she explained, expressing her excitement about showcasing her personal story through her music.
As West Coast embarks on this new chapter, she acknowledges the challenges of being perceived as a country artist, particularly given her background in hip-hop. However, she is undeterred by the judgement that frequently accompanies such a transition. “I’ve been judged for doing hip-hop, so what worse could happen?” she remarked. West Coast is eager to share her culturally diverse upbringing and experiences through her new music.
One of the significant themes in her new work is motherhood. West Coast notes that her experiences as a mother have profoundly influenced her songwriting. “I spent years doing hip-hop, but all my love songs were about heartbreak,” she said. Now, she finds herself in a happier place, which poses a unique challenge when it comes to writing new material. Yet, she embraces this change, expressing that her daughter has been a source of joy, reigniting her creativity.
When discussing her daily life and wellbeing, West Coast highlights the importance of self-care amidst her busy schedule. While she is known for her vibrant lifestyle filled with performances and events, she asserts that most of her time is dedicated to health and wellness. “I work out a lot… life is really about balance,” she shared, emphasising the need for self-care in her demanding routine.
As wedding plans take shape alongside her burgeoning music career, West Coast is taking a thoughtful approach to both her personal and professional life. They are awaiting the right moment for her daughter to join in on their wedding festivities as a flower girl, highlighting her commitment to creating family-centric memories.
In discussing “Down to the Filter,” West Coast described the collaborative process that brought the single to life. Although she did not pen the hook, she connected with the song and recognised it as representative of her current artistic narrative. “It has the Nashville flavour to it but also the Wild West kind of vibe,” she stated, showcasing her intention to blend various influences in her music.
Reflecting on her journey since she first appeared on MTV in 2008, West Coast acknowledges her growth and resilience. “I’ve faced a lot of obstacles, a lot of doors slammed in my face, but I’ve kept going because I have these dreams,” she remarked. Now, with a wealth of experience and a renewed perspective, she is ready to introduce her fans to a new version of herself through her music.
As West Coast enters this exciting new chapter, her transition into country music signifies not only a musical shift but also an opportunity to share her evolving identity as a mother, a partner, and an artist. Fans eagerly anticipate how she will merge these aspects and evolve her sound in the years to come.