A Conversation with a Pilgrim: Christie Chong Talks About Her New Album "Songs for the Journey"

Christie Chong who resides in Los Angeles comes to us with a wealth of musical experiences.  Trained classically, she had been part of an a cappella and gospel choirs while growing up.  Even for a short time, she fronted a rock band.  Finally, she has been blessed with the opportunity of recording her debut album "Songs for the Journey." On this record, Chong wears various hats:  not only does she sings, but she writes each of these 11 entries from bar one.  On top of that, she plays the bulk of the instruments and she even oversees these songs as the album's sole producer.  We are honored to be able to catch up with Christie for this exclusive Hallels' interview:  

Hallels:  Christie, congratulations on the release of your brand new album 'Songs for the Journey.'  Tell us a little about your own life journey, who is Christie Chong?

Thank you so much!  The release of my Contemporary Christian album is a lifelong dream come true.  Ever since I was a little girl, born in San Francisco and raised in Texas, Colorado, and Hong Kong, I loved singing and playing the piano.  Music was a big part of my life but it was always relegated to a hobby until I decided to pursue professional music training after college.  This led me to pursue a career in singing and producing here in LA, where I am settled with my husband and two daughters.  Because I grew up in a strong Christian home, with a stay-at-home mom, I believe my primary ministry and career, above music, is to take care of my family and to disciple my children.  My faith in Jesus is the most important thing to me and I am privileged to be able to write songs to and for God, that hopefully encourage other people in their faith journeys as well.

Hallels:  On your website you have stated you do backing vocals as well as you have also composed songs for other artists.  Who were some of the artists you have had worked with?

One of my favorite things to do is to arrange and sing background vocal parts!  I've gotten to sing live background vocals for Dove Award winner Steve Green, as well as Chinese pop stars Coco Lee and Chris Wong.  You can also hear my singing voice in a number of commercials, shorts, and movies, including the recent "My Lucky Star", starring Wang Leehom and Zhang Ziyi, and "From the Rough", starring Taraji Henson.  I was also able to sing and write music on promo videos for various professional sports teams, such as the Arkansas Razorbacks and the Los Angeles Sparks!  

Hallels:  Why and how did you come to release 'Songs for the Journey?

'When God gives you a gift, you have the opportunity to steward it well and to bless others with whatever He has given you.  I felt strongly that my penchant for music was meant for more than just my own self-amusement.  Indeed, God wanted me to write and sing songs that would encourage fellow believers in the Body of Christ. Through the opening of doors and timely words of encouragement throughout my young adult life, I began to envision this recording project to the point where I thought, "Hey, this might be something I could really do, with the Lord's help!"  

Not only did God give me the songs to sing, but He also gave me music production tools and talented collaborators to really see this project to fruition.  The project had many challenges and setbacks over the years and I often felt like quitting.  I got busy with major life transitions into marriage and parenthood, and often lost focus.  But I knew I just had to get the CD out.  I just sensed that God wanted me to finish the good thing He had started within me, for His glory ultimately, not mine.  Therefore, I see this album as a ministry first and foremost.  It is a way I can ultimately bless my brothers and sisters, by encouraging them to worship God with all their hearts and to stay the course in their journey of faith.

Hallels:  For readers who are not familiar with your style of music, how would you describe your sound?  Who would you say are the people who have influenced you as an artist?   

My biggest musical influence is probably Mariah Carey, since I listened to her songs almost exclusively growing up.  I picked up her R&B improvisational style as well as her catchy songwriting hooks and background vocal arranging.  My instrumental arrangements can be said to be more 90's style as well.  Another favorite artist of mine is Australian singer, Tina Arena, who influenced me towards pure tone singing as well as melodic and groovy arrangements.  Later in life, I also listened to gospel singers Mary Mary, Yolanda Adams, and CeCe Winans.  So in terms of my own style, I would say my singing is stylistically R&B/Gospel, but with a more retro straight-ahead worship feel at times, a la Twila Paris and Amy Grant.  So that would place me right in the middle with artists like Nicole C. Mullen.

Hallels:  Many of your songs are not only worship-focused but they are integrated with Scripture, how do you write your songs?  Do you start with a Bible passage or more with a melody?  

Scripture is my favorite source of songwriting.  It is so rich in profound truths as well as lyrical imagery.  There is no greater subject to write about than God and His Word!  Often times, I will start with a Scripture passage that inspires me and I will write the words first because of the message that I want to share about that particular passage.  I'll read the lines while asking myself, "How do these lyrics want to come alive?  How do they breathe?  What is their natural melodic expression and rhythm?"  That's when the lyrics start to take on a musical shape.  For other songs though, I will start with a melodic phrase or a chord progression first.  The questions then become, "What emotion does this music inspire in me?  What does my heart want to say through this music?"  Then usually a subject or message comes through the music and I articulate it with lyrics, given the musical framework.  

Hallels:  Are you also a worship leader?  If you are, where do lead worship?  

Yes, I led worship for many years at various fellowships and churches in Boston and Los Angeles.  I also started and directed gospel choirs at the churches, which is my favorite form of corporate worship because of its fun expression of freedom and jubilance in worship.  Currently, I attend Evergreen Baptist Church of San Gabriel Valley here in Los Angeles, where I find myself participating only occasionally in the worship ministries, and dabbling more in ministries for women and children.  

Hallels:  If our readers would like to purchase your new album or/and find out more about you, where can they go?

Check out my website at: http://www.christiechong.com where people can preview my whole album, get in touch with me, as well as find photos, my bio and blog, reviews, lyrics, and my online store.  The album is also available for download from iTunes as well.  Thank you so much for supporting my music!

 

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