Dee Chanelle isn’t just a singer-songwriter; she’s a storyteller with a knack for turning life’s ups, downs, and unexpected twists into unforgettable music. Born in the Philippines and raised in London, Dee’s journey is as dynamic as the tunes she crafts—full of heart, grit, and a few laugh-out-loud moments.
From Poems to Power Ballads
Dee’s love affair with music started early. By 12, she wasn’t just singing along to the radio; she was writing her own songs and performing them. Her inspiration? A childhood love for poetry and a need to express the stories in her head and heart. “Music isn’t just something I do—it’s how I connect with the world,” she says.
Of course, not every gig was smooth sailing. Take the time she found herself locked in an Italian studio with her assistant while waiting for an agent to (hopefully) return. Or the last-minute stage construction for a show that started in five hours. Looking back, Dee laughs at those experiences, calling them part of her learning curve. “You can’t make this stuff up,” she quips.
Turning Challenges Into Crescendos
As a transwoman and a Southeast Asian artist, Dee knows what it feels like to swim against the current. The music industry hasn’t always been the most welcoming, but she’s never let that hold her back. Instead, she’s used her experiences to grow stronger, wiser, and more determined. “I’ve realized it’s not about fitting into someone else’s mold—it’s about creating your own space and owning it,” she shares.
Dee has taken her talent everywhere, from the DIVA stage at London Pride to the EuroPride Song Contest in Cologne. And while breaking into an industry dominated by younger, more mainstream voices hasn’t been easy, she’s proving that passion and authenticity never go out of style.
More Than Music
Dee isn’t just about performing; she’s about making a difference. Her latest venture, ZODIAC Bar & Club, is a safe haven in London’s bustling nightlife—a trans-owned, trans-run space for creativity, connection, and unapologetic self-expression. “I wanted to create something that felt like home for everyone,” she explains.
Her ultimate goal? To inspire others, particularly young LGBTQ+ artists, to follow their dreams despite the odds. Whether it’s through her music, her mentorship, or her no-nonsense life advice, Dee’s message is clear: “Don’t let fear or doubt stop you from trying. Even if you fail, at least you’ll have a great story to tell.”
Looking Ahead
The future is bright for Dee Chanelle. She’s set her sights on taking her music to the Philippines in 2025, writing songs for other artists, and growing her influence as an artist and a motivator. She dreams of using her platform not just to perform but to give back, aiming to become a philanthropist in the years ahead.
A Final Note
Dee Chanelle’s journey is proof that you don’t have to follow the crowd to find success. With her talent, resilience, and down-to-earth personality, she’s paving her own path—one heartfelt song at a time. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or just some really good music, Dee’s story will leave you feeling uplifted and ready to take on the world.
Follow Dee on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and Twitter @iamdeechanelle, or visit her official website at www.deechanelle.com. After all, the best way to experience Dee is through the music she lives and breathes.
