Let’s Meet Jewish Person Of The Week – Chantae Vetrice

Where did you grow up?

New York City! New York teaches you how to live anywhere in the world and adapt to your surroundings. Growing up and learning in the biggest city in the country made me who I am today. I accept everyone and love being around diversity…I thrive on it. The sounds, the lights, the people…there’s no place like it.

What did you do Jewish growing up? I didn’t do anything Jewish growing up because I converted. I started to read, study, ask questions about Judaism around age 25.

Where did you go to school? Georgia State University in Atlanta where I studied Sociology with a minor in Child Psychology. It was my backup plan because I knew I wanted to pursue music. I started recording and song writing in college but my family has always been big on education. College first, then my musical career.

What do you do for fun/to relax?
Netflix- I love movies, love to read- going to second hand bookstores. I love cooking and hanging out with my dog.

What do you do Jewish now?

I try to observe Shabbat as much as I can, whenever I’m able to. I enjoy lighting the candles, disconnecting from the world, spending time with family, having a good meal. I am mastering the art of making chulent. I want to learn Hebrew- I started a bit but it’s a hard language to master. I already speak Spanish but would like more time to focus on Hebrew.

Top three things on your Chicago bucket list?
Go to a Chicago Cubs game even though I’m a Yankees fan
The ledge at the Willis Tower
To see the river dyed green- I wasnt’ here for St. Patrick

What is your favorite Chicago food?

Sorry guys but I do not like deep dish pizza….give me a thin crust, new york style slice any day! But I will admit, Chicago has the best hotdogs!!! Pass the char- dogs please!

What do you do for work?

Music! My music project is what I’m currently working on but I also model on the side. My last major project was for Bacardi. This is my second music project I’m currently working on; the producer is from Chicago- I met him through my team out in NYC. I’m getting ready to release my EP, also dropping my single and music video at the beginning of next month (April). It will be available on all the major music platforms (Spotify, Itunes, YouTube). See the music video here.

I absolutely couldn’t live without music and what I love the most about it is my ability to channel my emotions through my music…whether good or bad…it is a form of therapy.

Who are your musical inspirations?

Prince, Janet Jackson, and Gwen Stefani (No Doubt).

Tell us more about what you have coming up:

I have a music launch party on Thursday, March 28 at the Garden Roof top of Celeste. It will be an intimate evening of celebrating. I will show everyone a sneak preview of the music video before it’s released.