Chance Perez stars as the Black Dino Fury Ranger ‘Javier Garcia’ in “Power Rangers Dino Fury”, that premieres on Nickelodeon On February 20th. Raised in Seal Beach, California, Chance harbored a deep passion for the entertainment Industry since he was a child. Having the opportunity of a lifetime, Chance signed a major record deal with Hollywood Records after winning America’s Got Talent & Boyband Project ABC series, “Boyband”, as part of the pop group In Real Life.
He was inspired by his father, a musician himself, whom Chance lost when he was only eight years old. He has cited his father to be his greatest inspiration. His 5 year old daughter, Brooklyn, is his pride and joy. Before his path in show business, he became a certified EMT and was on course to becoming a trained firefighter to support her.
Chance is currently working on his solo music, which is set to release in the next months. Flanelle had the opportunity to interview Chance about his past, present and future, right before his upcoming music release
Photographer: Ben Cope
Styling: Chaise Dennis
Groomer: David Song
Before going on ABC’s Boy Band you were a certified EMT. What made you change course and fully pursue a career in entertainment?
Truthfully, I had given up on a career in entertainment. I had given it a shot when I was 16 in a boyband called ‘Boyband Project’, but after a year and a half, we called it quits. Right as I was about to become a full-time EMT and sign on with my first ambulance service, an opportunity to be on a television show presented itself. The show was called, ‘Boyband’ on ABC. I decided that I would go for it! One summer later, against all odds, I ended up winning the show with 4 other contestants, and the rest is history.
When ‘In Real Life’ split up to pursue your individual careers, did you go right to writing your own music?
I had been writing my own solo music prior to the split of ‘In Real Life’. Not expecting a split or anything! But, I think we all felt at some point we wanted to try individual things for a while and see where it took us, so we started preparing for that day ahead of time.
After being in the group for years, was it nerve-wracking pursuing your own career as an artist?
Leaving a group filled with some of your closest friends is never easy, but I felt there was a part of me that was ready to explore what it meant to be on my own. For me, the door will always be open to doing something again with my brothers, but being a solo artist has allowed me a freedom that I wouldn’t have had otherwise, and I’m grateful for that.
How does your style as a solo artist differ from your previous work?
I’ve written songs that come out as 80’s pop records, songs that reside more with the singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran acoustic realm, even some R&b, and folk-rock records. That being said, no matter what kind of song it is, my biggest goal is to write songs that are true to me. If I had to classify the material I’m working on right now though, I would say Pop/Soul.
What inspired your love for music?
I discovered my passion for music very early on in my life. When I was 6, I remember my dad asking my older sister Aspen and I to sing on one of the songs he had just written. He hit record on a tape and played his guitar while my sister and I sang background vocals for his song. I remember that moment so vividly. I think that’s where my love for it started.
Did you always want to act as well, or did that come after finding success in the music industry?
Acting was entirely different. I’ve always been drawn to it, but until last year I never had the opportunity to pursue it. I was so excited and honored to audition for Power Rangers, but it truly was a shot in the dark. Ever since landing the role and getting to explore the acting field, I’ve developed a deeper love for it and can’t wait to continue the art.
So many people grew up watching Power Rangers and wanted to be one. How does it feel to be a part of something that is so many people’s childhood dream?
I’ve grown up watching Power Rangers, as many of us have, so the fact that I get to be a part of their history is beyond me! It had such a massive impact on its viewers- both children and adults alike. An impact on pop culture, ahead of the curve on diversity and culture. It’s truly an honor to be a part of it all.
What was it like getting the call that this was going to be your first-ever acting role?
When I got the call that I was going to be the black Ranger on ‘Power Rangers Dino Fury, I truly couldn’t believe it. I had no prior acting experience whatsoever unless you count two years of show choir in high school. My mom, little sister, and I were on the phone with my manager, jumping up and down screaming. We were all so happy. I’ll never forget the joy I felt that day.
What is the filming experience like in New Zealand?
A normal work week would consist of waking up at 5 or 6 am, working anywhere from 10-15 hours a day on set, 5 days a week, with ADR on the 6th day. Afterward, we would come home, try to get a workout in if we had the energy, study lines and then be back at it again in the morning. The filming process went on for nine 9 whole months! Even though we were working tirelessly, I wouldn’t change a thing about it. The show challenged me in so many ways, all making me a stronger and more accomplished individual. It was amazing.
What lessons have you learned from going after your passion that you want to pass onto your daughter?
I would tell her that no matter what, she has to believe in herself and have fun in whatever she chooses to do! Do what means the most to you and don’t be afraid to wear your heart on your sleeve. There are too many people in this world trying to be what the rest of the world wants them to be. Be yourself, be proud of yourself, love yourself, and don’t ever give up on what you believe in.
Where do you hope to take your career?
I’ve been working on music over the past year and I’m about to start the rollout plan. Many songs are lined up and ready to be released to the world starting with my first single, “Can’t Trust Summer”, which comes out Friday 8/27! I’m really excited about this one and can’t wait for it to be heard by fresh ears.
As an artist, I can only hope to say what’s true to my heart and never try to be anything I’m not. I hope the music that I have created and will be released to the world resonates with my fans and with new listeners as it does with me. Hope you enjoy it!
Wardrobe Credits
1st Look:
Undershirt, Jacket & Overshirt: Saint Laurent
Jean: John Elliot
Jewelry: Stylist’s Own
2nd Look:
Woven Jacket: Saint Laurent
Silk Shirt: Yohji Yamamoto
T-Shirt: Matteo Los Angeles
Pants, Sneakers and Jewels: Saint Laurent