Biography
Chela Rhea Harper, an accomplished musician, entered the world of music early on, honing her skills and developing her unique artistic voice. Growing up in a diverse musical environment, she was inspired by various genres ranging from alternative rock to metal. This eclectic upbringing laid the foundation for her passion and commitment to her craft, which eventually led her to pursue a career in music full-time. Her fervent dedication to her art paved the way for her to immerse herself in the vibrant music scene, particularly the heavy metal genre where she would make her most significant contributions. Chela’s professional journey began in earnest when she joined the renowned heavy metal band Coal Chamber in 2011. During her tenure with the band, which lasted until 2013, she played a crucial role in reinvigorating their sound, contributing both her vocal talents and exceptional guitar prowess. Coal Chamber, known for their signature blend of nu-metal and alternative metal, provided a platform for Harper to showcase her dynamic range and creativity. Following her time with Coal Chamber, she formed a new project called Adora Vivos. Although no releases were generated under this name, it reflected her ongoing commitment to explore new musical territories and continue evolving as an artist. Musically, Harper is recognized for her innovative style that intertwines elements of gritty metal with melodic undertones. Her work with Coal Chamber featured a blend of aggressive guitar riffs and atmospheric layers, layered with her distinctive vocals that can shift from hauntingly melodic to intensely powerful. Throughout her career, she has favored signature gear that complements her musical expression, including a particularly favored 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard for its rich, warm tones, alongside a Marshall JCM800 amp, known for its raw power and clarity. Her choice of gear often includes Boss DS-1 distortion pedals for that iconic crunch, while also utilizing Vic Firth Drumsticks for her percussive elements in studio sessions. Chela Rhea Harper has left an indelible mark on the metal genre, not just through her work with Coal Chamber but also as an inspiring figure for aspiring musicians everywhere. Her innovative blend of genres and dedication to pushing the boundaries of her sound continues to influence a new generation of artists. As of now, Harper remains active in the music industry, focusing on personal projects and collaborations that reflect her evolution as an artist, ensuring that her legacy as a powerful voice in metal music endures. Her capacity to connect with listeners through her artistry speaks to her everlasting impact on both her fans and the music community at large.
Roles
bass guitar, lead vocals
Band History
Coal Chamber, Adora Vivos
Signature Gear
Guitars: 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard
Amps: Marshall JCM800
Microphones: Shure SM58
Cabinets: Marshall 1960A 4x12
Strings: Ernie Ball Regular Slinky 10-46
Picks: Dunlop Jazz III
Bandmates & Collaborators
Mike Cox, Dez Fafara, Meegs Rascón, Nadja Peulen, John Thor, Rayna Foss-Rose