23-year old Chicago native, Crystal Yi, better known as CHAI, is an R&B soul singer influenced by artists including Alicia Keys and John Legend. CHAI began her career recording hooks for local rappers at the age of 18 and has since established herself as a stand out female vocalist. After releasing her first single, “Thirst Trap”, alongside other collaborative works, CHAI spent a year in Korea competing in K-pop Star Season 5, a Korean singing competition similar to “The Voice” & “American Idol.” After months of constant practice, performances, and interviews, CHAI won first place making her an internationally recognized artist and performer. CHAI received several label offers but ultimately signed with an independent Korean label named “Antenna” where she will continue to develop her voice and performance leading to her debut in Korea. 

CHAI has since returned to Chicago to finish her final year as an art major at the University of Illinois. During her time in the US, CHAI has been performing nationally and writing new music with plans to release her first solo EP in the US. Her goal is to be an internationally recognized artist breaking the mold of traditional K-Pop culture by introducing her neo-soul influences and mindset.