A lover of the process of music from a young age, Chittester began performing in her teens. “I began writing music in high school and performing at local coffee shops and talent shows. When I moved to Cleveland, I had an opportunity to open a show for Michael Jackson’s guitarist, Jennifer Batten. This helped me build an audience in Cleveland and become quickly introduced to the music community,” she says.

Beginning her musical career in the Cleveland community, the city very quickly began to inspire her pathway into music. “I met very talented guitarists and musicians in my Cleveland community who were earning a living playing their music. They helped me become a better musician and helped me understand the business of playing music. The musicians in Cleveland are hard-working and creative, that’s what inspires me most.”

When speaking about her performances, especially her upcoming event at the 2021 Waterloo Arts Fest, Chittester spoke about her attraction to venues such as those. “I have played Waterloo in the past and it was a really fun event to be part of! I love events where I am performing with other musicians in the area. It’s a chance to hear some of my friends perform and be there to cheer!”  

Chittester’s path into music was obviously inspired by the Lakewood musicians around her, who helped her on her journey through music, and who continue to inspire her today. When asked about such connections, and how the people of Lakewood encourage her and influence her, she says “Lakewood is just a very friendly and accepting community. LakewoodAlive works to employ the working artists living in Lakewood and many neighbors are usually excited to attend local events that are hosting local music.”

Finally, when asked about how the music scene in Lakewood differentiates from the rest of the country, and what makes it so unique, Chittester says, “Lakewood has a strong independent art and business support system. This helps newer artists quickly find audiences to play to and events to be a part of. Lakewood is also very accepting!”

This incredible artist, who has appeared on WoodSong Old Time Radio Hour, has had her album on radio stations across the country, and whose song “Freedom,” has charted over 11,000 plays on Spotify in a month, is a musician who is intrinsically tied to the Lakewood music scene, and the people of Lakewood as a whole, and whose music career is an inspiration to Lakewood musicians.