Chika Continues to Climb With New Song “High Rises” from Upcoming EP

Jane Chika Oranika, better known in the music world as Chika, launched her career in 2018 and has no intentions of slowing down. Her mixture of melodic hip-hop, fiery rap, and unapologetic feminist lyrics culminate in her upcoming EP, to be released this summer through Warner Records. Born in Montgomery, Alabama, Chika is a rapper, singer, activist, and poet all in one. Her bold attitude and strong confidence are reminiscent of other artists like Lizzo and English rapper Little Simz, yet Chika’s music is strikingly her own. Each song delivers substantial candor on identity and humanity at large, while pleasing the ear with flowing tunes.

New single “High Rises” showcases Chika’s personal story of rising above obstacles placed in her way with full-on soul, finger snaps, and a steady beat. Chika sings of exceeding expectations, breaking down barriers, and self-acceptance. The music video, shot in a community center in Chika’s hometown, depicts her experience with bullying as a young black girl. A choir sings in the background, giving her rapping an almost heavenly feel.

The lyrics resonate with those who feel like the world is against them, but more specifically, youth who see no way out. She sings honestly, “Round face, thick thighs. Full waist, bright eyes. She wonders if they'll judge her for her size, she doesn't compromise. She's seen this world before, this child is wise. Never busy, but her mind is occupied.” The song strikes deep into the heart, and the music amps up to culminate with the inspiring end the lyrics hold.

“High Rises” was written shortly after Chika’s decision to leave college. “I think it's cosmic that this song is released a day after signing with Warner Records,” Chika says of the new track. “It's my origin story, in which I didn't even know if I'd ever get this opportunity. I'm blessed and grateful to see it come full circle.”

Released earlier this year, “No Squares” leans more heavily into rap. It is fast paced, and like “High Rises,” is full of ballad-esque lyrics. Chika sings of standing on the edge, wising up, and the struggles of independent life. The chorus rings suavely before giving way to tongue-tying, spitting truth within the lyrics. It ends triumphantly, Chika declaring “No one ever thought I’d be in places that I’m in now.”

Chika received significant attention on the internet over a biting freestyle dis rap calling out Kanye West, and his public endorsement of Donald Trump, over his own “Jesus Walks” beat, which went viral last year. Her sentiments are chilling and cut deep. Chika raps, “It don’t matter how much money you got or you lack. When that check clears don’t forget your children are still black. And your music has been whack, and your views are moving back, to a day that triggers n—— ‘cause we still hear that whip crack.”

Since then, she continues to climb higher, her journey growing as more and more opportunities present themselves thanks to her overwhelming talent as an artist. Her self-made strength shines through in her music, and she continues to push forward. Most recently, she’s been a guest and performed on Jimmy Kimmel Live! and also stars as a model and poet for Calvin Klein.

Chika’s debut EP comes out this summer. Stream “High Rises” now.