Chief Cleopatra, born Jalesa Jessie, is an Austin, Texas-based soul-rock singer and songwriter. Originally from Corsicana, Texas, Cleo began her musical journey at an early age, singing and playing drums in her church's youth choir, and eventually beginning to write her own songs. After briefly stepping away from music, Cleo moved to Austin and released her debut EP, Lesa x Lenny Vol.1 with guitarist and collaborator Leonard Martinez in February 2019, kicking off her professional musical career. She was quickly noticed by and featured in the Austin Chronicle, KUTX and 101X Homemade. Cleo is a 4x SXSW official artist and a member of the Recording Academy. She has supported artists such as The Wailers, Adrian Quesada, Girl Talk, The Bright Ligh Social Hour, along with many more notable acts.