Meet Chris Charma
pronounced 'Kris Karma'
Why Charma?
I've been asked on many occasions why I now use 'Charma' instead of 'Karma'. Originally, I was using the spelling 'Kris Karma' until my mommy told me she didn't name no girl, she named a boy and that I need to keep the spelling Chris not Kris for which I said yes ma'am! I then researched to see if Karma can be spelt Charma matching the spelling of my first name. To my surprise there are two meanings. The name Charma is derived from concepts associated with 'charm' pronounced 'Charm-a', or 'Charisma' pronounced 'Karma'. We prefer the 'Karma' pronunciation, however, can get a little confusing when signing our name on the list for open mic night, but it is always nice to have a story about who we are and why we are who we are.
- Charma is defined 'to reflect qualities of attractiveness and allure, suggesting a magnetic personality that draws others in'.
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​​I do believe my Acoustic Bass does just that! In having my muse (my Epiphone Acoustic Bass) named 'Charma' takes on its own identity and through 'Charma' I write and perform songs I never could previously on any other instrument.
Our Intent
I always introduce myself as a songwriter. My only intent is to have the ability to get my originals heard and is why I love to interface with other musicians within songwriter circles, listening rooms, and open mics. All originals were written during the life and times living here in Jacksonville Florida. Chris Charma songwriting is all about love, passion, family, and fun!
Our Genre
I have been told our songwriting falls somewhere between contemporary adult and a southern blend of harmonies. Honestly, as far as Charma and I are concerned, that is exactly what we are trying to write and produce to the world! We are more than happy to be considered a part of the 'Contemporary Southern Harmony' genre. BING defines this genre as one that encompasses various styles of harmony music that draw from traditional Southern musical influences characterized by its emotional depth and melodic richness, incorporating elements from Blues, Country, and Gospel music. This genre reflects the rich tapestry of Southern music, blending tradition with modernity to create a vibrant and enduring sound.
Our Struggle, Our Karma
Many see what I do with my instrument and though there are many who like it, there have been some who will tell me I'm doing it wrong, or a Bass isn't played that way. ​To them I say my instrument is my muse, and I am in love with what I do. I can never abandon my instrument nor my style of playing. I love those who do well with what they do, however, in no way shape or form do I wish to be them or do as they do. I feel I am unique yet offer a solitude in songwriting none have seen before. I believe in my abilities in with my style of songwriting and will continue to do so.
My Style
My style of playing would be considered a lead/rhythm and not the normal bottom one might think a bass player would do. This would be why my choice of instrument has always been a very well-designed Acoustic Bass with a tight neck and correct intonation. The strings need to be closer and tighter to harmonize chord strumming yet have the ability to sound well from the top to the bottom of the neck using capos if need be. Of course, this is only for writing and performing originals. I have many times play bottom for other songwriters and covers being covered at open mics due to my instrument having a nice bounce when doing so.
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Only a few Acoustic Bass can offer such value to the methods I use. I have only found three makers thus far:
- 1) Washburn - almost any acoustic bass by WASHBURN will have good intonation and a strong sound with tight neck. WASHBURN acoustic bass is the why behind what turned me on to what I do!
- 2) JPG (no longer made or sold) - had a unique sound that sounded like a John Fogerty style of guitar playing on bass strings with a deep rich backwater sound.
- 3) Epiphone (currently use the original 'Epiphone El Capitan 2 Color Sunburst Acoustic Bass Guitar' series that is no longer in production and not the El Capitan J-200 Acoustic Bass series) - a full enriched body of sound with plenty of bounce that can adjust from going Lead/Rhythm to bass lines without changing anything on the instrument or pa system you are plugged into! Also, the intonation is incredible and most accurate I have ever found! I have found Epiphone to be for those who work at their craft and want an instrument that can deliver and not be an instrument that struggles!
Furthermore
In our travels we have had many musicians of different genres and instruments join in collaboration giving a broader sound and technique unique to ourselves. Such instrumentalist has been Flautist, Horns, Laptar, Dobros, Harmonicas, Percussions, Guitarist, other Bassist, Keyboards, Violins, Fiddles, Banjos, Mandolins, and even Ukeleles! They each have their own identity, and all bring such unique style and grace.
Thank you for listening!
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Sincerely,
Chris Charma
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Music is life! Writing is living!