We had the good fortune of connecting with Imani Chyle and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Imani, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I grew up in the 5th Ward neighborhood of Houston, Texas, and had a challenging childhood. Raised primarily by my grandmother, I had to become self-reliant at a very young age, essentially raising myself from the age of 14. My grandmother was an amazing cook, always preparing homemade meals from scratch, which deeply inspired my love for cooking. Although I didn’t learn directly from her, I started experimenting in the kitchen, often calling her for recipes and tips that helped me hone my skills, I fell in love with the culinary arts and eventually invested into my own food trailer called KitchChic Express. This is a significant part of my journey as an entrepreneur. Music has also been a lifelong passion of mine. I’ve been writing songs since I was young, drawing inspiration from legends like Anita Baker, Stevie Nicks, Cher, Tupac, Tears for Fears, Def Leppard, and Michael Jackson. As a kid, I’d grab my hairbrush, imagine myself on stage, and belt out Cyndi Lauper hits, dreaming of the day I’d create music that moves people the way these artists moved me. Growing up, I faced many challenges and had to fight through numerous physical, mental, and spiritual battles. These experiences taught me resilience and gave me a win-win mentality. Despite the obstacles, including domestic abuse, I emerged stronger and more determined. My challenging upbringing and the hardships I faced shaped me into the woman I am today—a proud entrepreneur and musical artist. Every struggle and triumph along the way has impacted who I am, fueling my passion for both cooking and music.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is a fusion of relentless passion and diverse influences, driven by a deep love for music that has shaped my entire life. What sets me apart is not just my ability to blend genres but also my approach to my style, creativity, and business. As an artistpreneur, I understand that success in the music industry isn’t solely about the music itself, it’s about building a comprehensive vision that encompasses everything from artistry to entrepreneurship.

I’m incredibly proud of the direction my food business, KitchChic Express, is heading, with plans to expand my brand across the globe, just as I am with my music career. My latest single, “I Am Queen,” is more than just music—it’s a bold declaration of empowerment and self-discovery. The support from fans and industry peers, especially in boosting its presence on major platforms, is essential to spreading this message. “I Am Queen” represents my throne, hard work, passion, and resilience. I’m also excited to announce my upcoming EP, Chapter 7 V 23, which continues this journey of growth and empowerment.

My journey has been anything but easy. Born Tammie Mcgrew, I started as MC Bytch in Houston, became GChyle in Atlanta, and faced countless challenges. Each setback taught me the power of reinvention. My final change to Imani Chyle had to mean something deeper. My daughter gave me the name-Imani means faith, commitment, and value, and that’s exactly what I stand on. I’ve learned resilience and authenticity are key: staying true to your vision and pushing forward, no matter the odds.

I want the world to know I’m someone to know. My life is where passion, resilience, and creativity merge to create something extraordinary. My brand is more than music-it’s a testament to perseverance and artistry. From my roots in Houston to my journey of resurgence, every chapter is driven by an unwavering love for music and a desire to inspire change.

As I continue to blaze new trails with my music and ventures, including my latest single, “I Am Queen,” I need your support. This release is more than a song—it’s an anthem of empowerment. By streaming it on Spotify and sharing it on major platforms, you amplify the message and fuel the inspiration I aim to spread. And whenever you’re in Houston, don’t forget to stop by our food trailer, KitchChic Express. It’s all about home-cooked goodness. Your support means everything!

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If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
While my clubbing days are behind me unless I’m performing at what I like to call venues, there are still plenty of great experiences to enjoy in Houston. So, my list that I’d take my best friend for an unforgettable week-long visit:

Day 1:
Morning: Breakfast at The Breakfast Klub.
Afternoon: Lunch at Lost and Found, then explore Discovery Green.
Evening: Dinner at Pappadeaux’s Seafood followed by live music at The House of Blues.

Day 2:
Morning: Hit the gym, then breakfast at Fig & Olive.
Afternoon: Pamper Me Day at Gangnam Spa, then lunch at The Warwick Houston.
Evening: Visit and take selfies by the Water Wall, then dinner at The Sol7 and drinks with a skyline view.

Day 3:
Morning: Breakfast at Forget Me Not.
Afternoon: Social moment at Best Regards Houston in the Heights.
Evening: Hang out with local friends and enjoy food at Pretty Girls Eats in The Heights. Enjoy margaritas a personal favorite.

Day 4:
Morning: Breakfast at The KitchChic then outdoor fun at Lagoonfest Texas.
Afternoon: Explore the Menil Collection or Rienzi Museum. Then Seafood at the Seaholic Bar in Katy.
Evening: Dinner & Drinks at Numero 28 and nightlife in Midtown.

Day 5:
Morning: Breakfast at The Sunflower Bakery & Café.
Afternoon: Enjoy Galveston Beach or the Pleasure Pier.
Evening: Return to Houston for dinner at Upper Kirby Bistro.

Day 6:
Morning: Brunch at Se7en in Houston.
Afternoon: Shopping at The Galleria.
Evening: Dinner and drinks at Redd’s and a movie at IPIC Cinema.

Day 7:
Morning: Relaxing breakfast at home.
Afternoon: Poolside at home with a swim and mimosas. Visit the Houston Zoo or enjoy Hermann Park.
Evening: Invite friends over for dinner at home, make daiquiris, listen to my music, and just have fun.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, I want to thank God, who is the head of my life and comes before anyone and everyone. I want to give a big shout out to every obstacle and challenge that I’ve faced in my life, as they have helped shape me into the woman I am today, giving me the strength and perseverance to succeed in everything I do.

I am a proud mother of seven amazing and talented adults. They are my heroes, and I’m grateful for their love, support, and unique gifts. A big shoutout to them and, I want to give a heartfelt shoutout to my daughter, Zipporrah, a.k.a. Zippy, who has been my biggest supporter through countless obstacles. She is an amazing anime artist and the next one up in the creative world. I am incredibly proud of her! I also want to remember my mom and my uncle, (RIP). I miss them dearly and hope their looking down and smiling.

A heartfelt thanks to all my mentors and true supporters who’ve prayed for and uplifted me. Special shoutout to my brother Gary Wilkerson, a longtime friend and mentor I deeply respect. I also want to thank music producers, directors, Ben Simmons of BenX for always believing in me, Annette Thomas (RIP), and former NBA player Steve Francis for their financial support and faith in my journey.

My partner in success, Chef J, deserves a special mention as well. His talent and experience have been invaluable, and I have much respect for him. I look forward to our future successes with our restaurant, The KitchChic.

Lastly, I highly recommend two books that have guided me: the Bible, which keeps me rooted in God’s word, and *The Dream Giver* by Bruce Wilkinson. *The Dream Giver* came into my life when I was at crossroads, and its message of stepping outside the Land of Familiar to chase your dreams resonated deeply. It’s a book that encourages taking chances, no matter the challenges ahead, and it helped me focus on pursuing my God-given gifts.

Website: https://www.imanichylerocks.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imanichyle/

Twitter: https://x.com/imanichyle

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/imanichyle/

Youtube: https://youtu.be/DCk8rhHCqpo

Other: www.kitchchic.com

https://www.instagram.com/kitchchicexpress

Image Credits
Photos by Carlos Armando

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.