.. CDBABY LINK for CHUCKI BEGAY: Songs From My Heart --
Charlene “Chucki†Begay was born and raised on the Navajo Reservation. Her clan is Kiyaa'anii (Towering House) and she is born for Txachii'nii (Red Running into Water) Clan. Her maternal Grandfathers are of the Naakaii dine'e (Mexican People) Clan and her paternal Grandfathers are of the Txodichi'ii'nii (Bitter Water) Clan. She comes from a place called Dzil'abei (Gray Mountain, AZ).Chucki refers to her music as “contemporary Native American music with a Dine' flair†in which she blends soothing rhythms of rock, blues, folk and jazz. Her soulful melodies echo a deep connection to her Dine' culture and tradition. She says her Grandmother’s traditional teachings influenced her life, her way of thinking, and her music. Her spirituality is inherent in her motivating words and soulful way of expressing her music, whether it be about love, heartbreak, traditional songs or the way of Hozhoji (Beautyway).Chucki’s performances have included pow wows, social events, weddings, cultural events, birthdays, benefits, and conferences. She is in the process of recording her first CD and upon completion will begin plans on a meditative CD. Her future projects also include producing and composing music for a theatrical-musical production.Chucki says the purpose for her music is to share her voice and song with the world, to express Hozhoji (Beautyway) and all that it embraces. She says that is what her people have believed since time immemorial. She wants to convey that to her people, to all people, to bring the significance of maintaining harmony and balance into focus. Some of her songs are in her native language as she combines traditional and contemporary styles.Chucki holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Arizona. Although she devotes most of her time to her music, she is contemplating delving into the world of law and policy.Chucki is a single parent of four children (Siobhan Deborah, David Jr ‘JB’, Caroline, Harry), and three beautiful grandchildren (Michael, Jasmine, Adam). Chucki currently makes her home in Tucson, AZ.
