What's On! Music - Oke Chornick

by Ellen Nguyen | Photos from Oke Chornick

I first met Oke Chornick, presumably the morning after a gig or an unforgettable party, as she was having breakfast with her band. When ordering eggs and toast, Oke didn’t fuss over details like how her eggs should be cooked or which type of bread she preferred. Instead, her approach—much like her perspective on life—was simple yet bold: “Surprise me!”

Born and raised in Mission, British Columbia, Oke treasures her family, friends, and community, embracing the beauty and luck of living in such a remarkable place. Her passion for music and art took root when she was just a child and has grown into a lifelong dedication. With 25 years of cashiering experience and nearly a decade as a business owner, Oke has seamlessly incorporated creativity into her life, organizing and booking musical entertainment since her teenage years. For more than a decade, she has been the driving force behind live music at Mission’s beloved Captain's Cabin. Her artistic talents extend far beyond music; she excels in drawing, painting, digital design, video production, and photography, which she proudly showcases on her "Olde News Video and Stills" Facebook page. Oke collaborates with bands on t-shirt, album, and poster designs, alongside her own creative ventures.

Music was always an integral part of Oke’s upbringing, with instruments scattered around the house igniting curiosity without pressure. Alongside her brother, she delighted in creating sounds and exploring the joys of music. A major source of inspiration was her grandmother, Mary Chornick, a celebrated Ukrainian mandolin player whose extraordinary talent left a lasting impression. Another key influence in Oke’s musical journey was the Mission Folk Festival, which introduced her to the vibrant world of global music.

At age 14, Oke’s best friend bought a guitar, sparking the idea for her to ask her father for a drum kit. That marked the 
beginning of her lifelong relationship with percussion, as she has been mastering the drums for nearly 30 years. Today, she plays in several bands, including Random Dander, Hollow Groves, and Super Kawaii.

For Oke, life itself is the ultimate source of inspiration. Each day brings new opportunities for learning, connecting with others, and celebrating the moments that make life extraordinary. She cherishes forming meaningful relationships and reveling in the joy of a lively party.

Beyond her music, Oke has many unique passions. She’s an avid survival show enthusiast, constantly amazed by the creativity and endurance displayed by participants. In the kitchen, she’s known for making the best eggs—a skill that speaks to her ability to find joy in life’s simple pleasures. Her cat, an impressive companion, even high-fives her! Since age seven, Oke has been collecting rock t-shirts, a passion that aligns seamlessly with her business, Olde News Vintage & Vinyl, in Downtown Mission.

You can easily find and follow Oke’s music and videos online through Bandcamp, YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram—just
search for her bands: Random Dander, Hollow Groves, and Super Kawaii.  Don’t miss the chance to support Oke’s incredible journey as a musician and immerse yourself in her vibrant world of creativity!