It’s spring term, the best time of the year. The sun is finally starting to peep out of the clouds, people are out and about on campus, and you’re dreaming of doing homework in the park with your iPod in. But which artist will you tune in to? With a new season comes a craving for some awesome new tracks to get you through the rest of the school year, and we have your fix. Chima Mekkam, also known as Remy Rock, is a fresh face you should keep your eye out for on campus. His chill hip-hop sound and flawless rhythm will have you swaying in your sundress. And not only is he a great artist, he’s also a friendly fellow U of O student who’s always up for a smile and a chat. If you’re not convinced yet, just let Chima convince you himself.
Name: Chima Mekkam, but fans call me Remy (Rock)
Major: Musical Engineering/Criminal justice
Interests/Hobbies: Music, music, and occasionally on the days between…more music
Lily Tong: Describe yourself in three words.
Chima Mekkam: Motivated, talented, and passionate.
LT: Describe your style of music.
CM: My music is a laid back hip-hop feel with an underground sound, but it all varies depending on the content of the lyrics. In my songs, I talk about everyday things like work, school, bills, money and following your dreams, no matter what the naysayers may tell you. It is an expression of my life, and that is the only true style that I stick to.
LT: What and who influences your sound?
CM: I try my best to focus on both lyricality and versatility, both influenced by two very different artists. I didn’t really listen to artists and want to make music like theirs, but my biggest influence from the time I started writing music would be Lauryn Hill. She was so versatile in her music; she never stuck to one sound or style. One of my biggest influences to date would have to be J. Cole. I fell in love with his style of music and his subject matter. With every song he makes, the truth and passion are nearly tangible, and I definitely strive to have the same level of lyrical content. People say hip-hop music is money, hoes and dro. I find great influence in proving that wrong, even though I am not knocking the artists that do write about those things. Without variety, music wouldn’t be nearly as interesting or entertaining.
LT: What are your future plans for your music career?
CM: My plans for my music career are to be successful and always appreciative of where it takes me. I want to be able to tour the country and eventually take my music worldwide. Music is my life, and it is on my mind every minute of the day. I just want the world to hear what I have to say.
LT: What do you want your listeners to feel when they hear your songs?
CM: I want them to be able to understand and feel that (hip-hop) music is art, and it is how I express myself best. Music should always evoke some type of emotion, and that is what I strive to do, even if it is being able to feel where I’m coming from on a difficult subject or just being able to kick back and enjoy a dope song. Above all matter, I want them to feel my honesty and dedication. Here’s a quote that I find most inspiring: “One good thing about music: when it hits you, you feel no pain.” – Bob Marley
LT: Where can people listen to/download your music?
CM: The best place would be my website, which is where I post my mixtapes, albums or anything recent. Another good place to check out is my YouTube page, which is where I post videos of all sorts. I’m a funny guy that just likes to kick back and have a good time, so I am constantly posting random stuff along with my music. Follow me on Twitter!
Chima has a great sound and a great mind. Celebrity status-worthy? I think so. Hit up his website, and get hooked on a new, unique sound this spring.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Oregon chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.