Westbound Boarder

Commonly known as “The Rapping Receptionist,” Chanel is so much more than that. All before the ripe age of 21 Chanel joined Rob Dyrdek on the hit MTV series “Rob Dyrdek’s Fantasy Factory” – although her career didn’t start there. Chanel has been a hip/hop artist since she found her passion for the industry back in the 4th grade and has been going strong ever since. As a passionate poet, singer/songwriter and skateboarder, Chanel has recently added the title of fashion designer to her list of accomplishments as she has become the face of her own clothing line, Valleywood.

Valleywood is a melting pot of styles, fashions, and trends that create the unique flavor of the west coast for junior girls. The line uses hints of the music scene, action sports, casual feel of the beach, high fashion on Melrose and the grit of East L.A. From Chanel herself, “My fashion is inspired by going through so much in life and knowing that what you wear isn’t who you are…what you wear just complements the person that you are. Valleywood is a mix between skater girl/beach girl and hip-hop girl; I consider myself to be all 3.”

And we consider Chanel to be quite the accomplished grounded woman who is super grateful to be where she is today. We are proud to share our personal interview with Chanel, with you.

Let’s start with the basics… Tell us a little bit about yourself (I know, pretty generic, but humor us)

I am a 21 year old aspiring rapper/singer from Los Angeles and I’m the “Rappin’ Receptionist” on the MTV show, “Rob Dyrdek’s Fantasy Factory!”

How did you find yourself on The Fantasy Factory?

I became friends with Rob through mutual friends and he offered me the job as his receptionist, unexpectedly.

What is it like working for/with someone like Rob? He seems pretty entertaining!

Probably all of the weirdest, strangest, funniest moments in my life have happened since working at the Fantasy Factory. Working for Rob is absolutely amazing and he’s one of the coolest people I know! He is more than entertaining – he is hilarious!

Anything we can look forward to this season that you are particularly excited about?

The return of Bobby Light. It will be very funny!

How has your career led you to your new Valleywood action sports / hip hop-influenced clothing line?

I’ve been fortunate that several new opportunities have come about through being on the show. I work and hangout with a lot of skaters and people in the action sports industry and get a lot of my influence from hip-hop as I continue to pursue my music career. My clothing line is completely based on my vision and lifestyle.

What is your favorite part of having your own clothing line?

Having the ability to create a lifestyle brand that is like nothing else out there.

Aside from your next season on the Fantasy Factory and Valleywood, what can we expect to see from your music career in the near future?

You can expect to see an album sometime in the near future. I am currently in studio with some of the industry’s top producers and I have my sights set on a 2010 release date!

Are there any songs that you can share with our readers?

At this time, you can hear some tracks on my MySpace music page. I will have new material being released shortly!

On top of the Fantasy Factory, Valleywood and your Music career, we also hear you have some skateboard skills of your own. What is your favorite part about the sport?

It really gets me pumped up and I don’t think people realize that skateboarding is also a great workout!

As our website targets women involved in action sports, any advice you can give to the girls out there who are intimidated by, or reluctant to dive into the male dominated industry?

There is no reason to be intimidated by anything or anyone! Everyone is capable if you put your mind to something….all it takes is persistence!

Favorite Candy Bar?

Snickers

GIVEAWAY: Check back tomorrow morning as we will be giving away a boat load of Chanel’s Valleywood t-shirts this week. Entering to win is quick and easy – we’ll see you tomorrow.