Respect | Chiney KiKi

Chiney KiKi

Meet multi-talented Artist, Dancer and Creative Director, Shaneak Whittingham… known in many parts of the world as Chiney KiKi. Kiki represents the bridge between the old and the new generation of Jamaican and African dancers, singers and songwriters. Born in the USA, raised in Portmore, Parish of St. Catherine, Jamaica, Chiney Kiki’s musical background, consists of years spent around Edna Manley Dancers and singers (Edna Manley College).

She has a heavy musical and dance lineage: Her mother, who was once an original ‘Grace Thrillers’ singer and dancer on the ‘Miss Lou’ show. At age 11, Kiki migrated back to the US, where she pursued musical instrumentation and singing. Her talent gained traction through her dancing and traveling back and forth to some of Jamaica’s hottest night events as well as popular New York parties such as ‘City Vibes’ Thursdays. For 3 years Kiki provided back up vocals for several artists, deciding to pursue a solo career in 2013.

Kiki has a Jamaican, Ghanaian, Chinese and Indian background. Her father is from Ghana, West Africa, hence her afrocentric vibe. Her name ‘Chiney’ Kiki, derives from her epicanthic fold eyes and the fact that her mother’s father is actually Chinese. Chiney Kiki is a reflection of her aspirations, determination and inspiration. Kiki’s success driven work ethic , has gained her worldwide recognition for her many interests and talents in the entertainment/show-business industry. Most of her dance compositions have enjoyed wide mass audiences in Jamaica, USA, Europe, and now a high demand in Africa. Thanks to her increase of followers and viewers on YouTube and her other social networks, Kiki’s sensational singles such as ‘Afrikan Woman’ and ‘Change’, are now enjoying massive radio airplay in Europe and beyond.