In the vibrant heart of Chicago’s music scene, Chanel Ellis stands out as a multifaceted force a silky-voiced R&B singer, dynamic performer, savvy CEO, video director, event planner, but also is a podcast host who’s building her career on her own terms.

Because of the sound that blends soulful grooves, feel-good energy, and heartfelt lyrics about love and relationships, she’s carving out her lane as one of the city’s most exciting independent artists.

Furthermore , she was born and raised in Chicago (with heavy ATL influences woven into her branding). However , Chanel proudly reps her roots while delivering music that feels both intimate and universal. Although, her vibe is positive, motivational, and unapologetically confident, the kind of artist who doesn’t just drop tracks . Especially creates full experiences through visuals, live performances, and community connection.

She’s a true independent boss as CEO of Chanel Entertainment.

A Growing Discography Full of Vibes

Lastly, Chanel’s catalog is stacked with smooth, replay-worthy singles that showcase her versatile R&B/soul style:
• “Chocolate Dove” (2020) a fan favorite with strong streaming numbers
• “Playground” (2023)
• “Down Low” (2024)
• “ITZ CHANEL” (2025)
• “FALLIN IN LOVE” (2025)

Additionally, her latest chapter is generating serious buzz: the upcoming single “Into You” featuring Megastar (produced by Megastar2414), set to drop May 14, 2026 via GT Digital / Loud Money Music Group / Empire. Otherwise, pre-save it now this one is positioned as a potential summer anthem with its infectious energy and smooth chemistry.

Beyond the Music: Multi-Hyphenate Hustle
Also, Chanel isn’t just an artist she’s a true independent boss as CEO of Chanel Entertainment. Nonetheless, she directs her own videos, plans events, and uses her platform to uplift others. Afterall, additionally she does co-hosts the Vibe Check Podcast (with Steven Tyran Ragsdale) every Thursday on Intellectual Radio. While, delivering authentic conversations ,celebrity interviews, and great vibes from 9–10 PM.
Although, She’s also been recognized in the scene as an Award-Winning R&B Artist and has received nominations/votes for categories like Best Female Vocalist at the 312 Music Awards. Whether she’s performing live, cooking up features with Chicago and ATL talent, or dropping motivational content, Chanel’s hands-on approach shines through.
Online & Streaming Presence

Online & Streaming Presence

• Instagram: @chanelellis552 (Rising Star energy with consistent music updates)
• TikTok: @chanelentertainment4
• YouTube: Active channel for visuals, interviews, and podcast clips
• Available on Spotify, Apple Music, and more — with growing monthly listeners and dedicated fans returning to tracks like “Chocolate Dove.”
Basically, Chanel Ellis represents the new wave of independent artists: talented, business-minded, and deeply connected to her city and supporters. Therefore , as she gears up for “Into You” and continues expanding her empire, one thing is clear the soulful siren from Chicago is just getting started.
Also, Stay locked in, because the vibe is strong, and Chanel Ellis is bringing it all the way.
Pre-save “Into You” now: https://empire.ffm.to/intoyouchanel IG-Chanelellis552
Facebook- Chanelentertainment & Chanel Ellis
#ChanelEllis #IntoYou #ChicagoR&B #VibeCheckPodcast #Rise4LifeMgmt

NEW SINGLE: INTO YOU

SIT DOWN WITH CHANEL ELLIS

1. What is your legal name and age?
Chanel Beverly Valerie Marie Ellis.

2. What is your stage name and how did you come up with it?
Chanel Ellis

3. Where are you from?
Chicago

5. Why did you first start making music?
Chiefly , first started making music when I was 16 and originally started singing in the Church choir when I was 12.

6. Who would you say inspired you the most, as an artist?
Despite , was inspired by so many artists. But to name a few: Beyonce, Aaliyah, Micheal Jackson

7. Where and how do you work best?
Although , I like to write music in my car, especially summer nights. I find it to be peaceful.

8.What’s the best advice you ever received?
You can’t please everybody, keep going!

9. Chiefly , What is still your biggest challenge?
Being fine.

10. All in all , Are you religious? If yes, what is your religion?
I am spiritual, I respect other religions.

11. What were your grades like at school?
I was honor student in High School and College. I enjoy learning.

12. What is the most useless talent you have?
Eating

13. What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received about your music?
I already sound famous

14. Emphatically, what would you have done differently if you knew then what you know now?
Especially , would have learned the business side of music before fully diving in.

15. What’s your latest release?
My latest release is my single Into you dropping May 14TH.

16. Who do people say you sound like?
People say I sound like Beyoncé

17. Who would you most like to collaborate with?
Chris Brown

18. Especially, if you could go open a show for any artist who would it be?
Jazmin Sullivan

19. What’s your best advice for handling criticism?
Criticism is necessary for growth

20. What surprising lessons have you learned along the way?
Believe in yourself no matter where you are in life!

21. Regardless, what are you focusing your time on now (e.g., recording a new record, touring the Midwest, writing, etc.)?

Equally, currently focused on my new single Into you, my current shows coming up, El Hitta April 17th, Rick Ross Aug 1st, Fleet dj conference in July, my podcast called Vibe Check with Megastar and Chanel Entertainment concert in July.

22. What is your favorite song to perform?
Chocolate Dove

23. Surprisingly, if you could only listen to 3 albums for the rest of your life, what would they be?
Micheal Jackson, Beyoncé and Tupac

24. What do you want your legacy to be? How do you want to be remembered?
I want to be remembered as a talented artist that never gave up. Someone who inspires and changes lives.

JOVAN MARIE is an R&B artist on the rise. Straight Official had the pleasure of catching up with her to chop it up about her moves and motives.

Q&A WITH JOVAN

Introduce yourself to our readers. What first got you interested in the entertainment industry?

My name is Jovan Marie and I was born in Vallejo, California. I began singing
at a young age. While I noticed early I had a talent and passion, I didn’t think much into the industry itself. I focused on the magic and freedom I heard in every voice on the radio.

Who and/or what inspires you to create?

In my musical journey my mother and my community are the constants. I loved and idolized artists like Prince, Whitney, Mariah and Beyonce. I would be dishonest if I did not mention that
everyone I’ve ever heard from any genre has inspired me to create. My gift inspires me and challenges me as well.

How would you describe your sound?

I am very grateful that I have my own sound. I’m classically trained and have dedicated many years to Christian chorus , worship and solo music. Over the years I focused on diversity. I appreciate the art form itself.
It allowed me to gravitate towards all genres which in turn, helped me to become a versatile artist.

THE CREATIVE PROCESS

What was your process in coming up with this song?

For Real Good Love , the lyric content came from the heart. I set up a session with Coe.b out of Los Angeles. I had a 2 hour slot time and my objective was to complete the song in that time. On Passion and Pressure he produced and engineered the song for me at his apartment. I took it home and knocked it out. I was inspired to add some Hip-Hop flavor to the track.

If you could add somebody to the song who would it be and why?

I would only choose Go Head Boy . It would be a woman who empowered to release her anger yet take a humble route. It would be nice if she was from the Bay Area. Or simply Beyonce.

My spirit and experiences shapes all of my expressions. I’m observant and sensitive. I express big. It’s just me.
Jovan Marie on how she is influenced

Who is Jovan Marie outside of music ?

Outside of music I’m a mother. A 9 years old girl gift with many talents as well. She sings and creates music. It’s an honor to support and encourage her. I work in hospitality and have educated myself in financial literacy and multiple streams of income and investments.

What’s the craziest thing a fan said to you ?

The craziest thing fan said to me was, “I’ll drink your bath water and wipe myself in your sweat.” They said it would give them my powers (laughs)

I will never stop doing music or performing. It’s in me to thrive off my expression. Longevity in it means life.
Jovan Marie

IN CLOSING

Is there something you would change if you could with your project or song ?

I would always desire a team to assist with perfecting the sound, having more fund and minds involved brings more energy and success to any project.

What’s next for you, where would you like to see yourself next year?

I’d like to see investors, a deal with a major label, collabs with up and coming artist and established. More rapports with talented musicians and producers. I want to perform on stages where people come to see me and
other gifted artists.

This is a fun question. If stranded on an island, what 4 things would you have to have ?

I would have to say camping gears, form of communication, protection and food.

What would you tell a person not to do in the music biz ?

Never let your ego get in front of your passion.

STAY IN TOUCH

To stay up to date with Jovan Marie, follow her on Instagram (@4jovanmarie). You can check out her website at www.jovanhoneymarie.com where you can join her mailing list for booking and exclusive information.

#GetSOM via @klassikceo

R&B

Chanel Ellis: Chicago’s Smooth R&B Rising Star Turning Passion into Empire

Straight Official Sit Downs: Jovan Marie