Inspiring Creative Career Pathways: Cece Chanel Regains Confidence and Independence Through Give a Beat’s “On a New Track” Program
Cece Chanels performs for 2023 On a New Track Graduation
Meet one of the recent On a New Track Reentry Mentoring Program graduates, Cece Chanel, the conscious rapper, lyricist and aspiring DJ who is making waves in the independent music industry. After finding inspiration through On a New Track, Cece Chanel is using her platform to advocate for reducing recidivism rates and better plans for individuals struggling with addiction. Hailing from Indianapolis, Chanel’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. After being sentenced to 16 years of incarceration, she was granted parole in April 2023 from the Central California Women’s Facility in Chowchilla where she was introduced to Give a Beat.
Despite the initial challenges and fears that came with her previous felony conviction, Chanel was given a life-changing opportunity through the On a New Track program, dedicated to mentoring and empowering formerly incarcerated individuals. Now, self-identifying as androgynous artist, Chanel is breaking stereotypes and showing the world that everyone deserves a second chance. In her own words, “Give a Beat offered me an opportunity to take care of myself and reclaim my independence.” Chanel’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and the power of music to transcend boundaries.
A Chance for Redemption and Growth
Photo Credit: Sue Hudelson
“I never thought I would have an opportunity and be valued as a formerly incarcerated person. On a New Track shifted the perspective of how people viewed me and boosted my confidence. Now, I know that I can be offered opportunities despite my experiences. I know I am more valuable because I have overcome circumstances and have been given a second chance. The journey has been hard and painful, but Give a Beat reminded me that after a great fall, I can always land on my feet again.”
- Cece Chanel
Give a Beat played a pivotal role in transforming Chanel’s life. In other spaces, people were treating Cece as a liability, but she felt Give a Beat saw her as an individual with immense potential. Cece Chanel firmly believed that Give a Beat gave her a second chance to overcome her past and create a better future for herself. Through the On a New Track reentry mentoring program, she discovered that her felony conviction did not define her worth or limit her potential.
Access to Resources and Opportunities
Photo Credit: Sue Hudelson
Give a Beat also provided Chanel with access to resources that she never would have had on her own. From music production equipment to enhancing her DJing skills through hands-on training, she believes the organization helped to open doors for her to explore new avenues in music creation and sharing. This support empowered Chanel to push the boundaries of her creativity and connect with others through her music.
“The community I became a part of with Give a Beat has helped me grow and provided me with the necessary tools I need to be a successful artist. It has also opened my mind to the world of DJing. Not only am I more confident as an amazing artist and lyricist, but I know being able to DJ and create my own music production would make me phenomenal in the future and allow me to maintain my independence. The game of the music industry can be intimidating, but this program has opened doors for me and mentors like Billy have given me a clear game plan.”
- Cece Chanel
Finding Redemption Through Music
From providing access to professional equipment to offering mentorship and guidance from industry experts, the program has given Chanel the resources she needs to hone her skills and further develop her musical talents. This support has been crucial in helping her navigate the music industry independently and make meaningful connections, opening doors that she believed were once closed due to her past convictions.
Moreover, the On a New Track program has provided Chanel with a strong support system that has been essential for her personal and artistic growth. Through organizations like Give a Beat, she has found a community of like-minded individuals who understand her journey and believe in her potential. This network of support has not only reminded her of her resilience but has also served as a constant source of encouragement during difficult times. By surrounding herself with a community of artists who share her passion for music and who have overcome their own challenges, Chanel continues to be inspired and motivated to pursue her dreams with unwavering determination.
“With Give a Beat, I also felt accepted as an androgynous artist. The organization made me feel included and understood my vision. While I was incarcerated, I consistently wrote poetry as a means of self-expression. It’s my passion, and provided with the right support and guidance from Give a Beat, I believe that together we can make a difference with music. Give a Beat provided me with the necessary tools and opportunities to keep my dream alive.”
- Cece Chanel
The On a New Track program has been a transformative experience for Cece Chanel. Through this program, Chanel has found redemption and a renewed sense of purpose, proving that second chances can lead to incredible achievements. Programs like On a New Track have proven to be powerful tools in empowering individuals and promoting rehabilitation. Through her discovery of Give a Beat and her recent graduation of On a New Track Reentry Mentoring Program, she found inspiration and a platform to break the cycle of mass incarceration through music.
Cece Chanel’s ongoing shared mission with Give a Beat to use music as a catalyst for positive change reflects her own personal belief in the healing power of music based on experience. She expresses gratitude for the opportunity given to her by Give a Beat, which has allowed her to share her story and inspire others. Cece Chanel’s ultimate goal is to further develop her skills in music production and DJing, aiming to gain even greater control over her artistry. Through her determination and passion, she continues to push boundaries and make a difference in the lives of others through her music.
Photo: @OfficialCeceChanel
With one of her latest singles “Just Got Out,” Cece Chanel shares her personal experience of release from prison and parole, serving as a reminder of the challenges she has overcome. As both a musician and activist, she strives to spread the message that music has the ability to heal and transform lives.
“Music has the power to heal because it has the ability to bring diverse individuals together. Music is transparent and serves as a medium for me to express myself genuinely and authentically. With the help of Give a Beat, I am unwavering in my determination and strive to inspire others to adopt the same mindset.”
- Cece Chanel
Overall, the transformative program On a New Track has touched the lives of many individuals, just like Cece Chanel. With your generous support, we can continue to make a lasting impact on even more people in need. Your donation will enable us to launch another cycle of On a New Track and provide opportunities for personal growth and empowerment. Join us in making a difference today by donating towards this life-changing initiative.
Congratulations to all the 2023 graduates of On a New Track Reentry Mentoring Program and thank you to California Mentoring Partnership, Anti-Recidivism Coalition, Native Instruments, Ableton, California Arts Council and the C.A.P.O. Center for help making this program possible!
