Riya: This is my Time to shine

by ASJAD NAZIR

TEENAGE SINGER-SONGWRITER HAS WORLD AT HER FEET AHEAD OF NEW SINGLE LAUNCH

THE music industry is always on the look-out for the next young star that will shine and light up the industry with their songs.

One newcomer generating a lot of excite­ment ahead of her debut single release is 15-year-old singer/songwriter Riya. The teen­age sensation has teamed up with produc­er Shayal on No Time and will take the first steps towards what looks like a big career.

She has already turned down a chance to appear on a big mainstream music reali­ty TV show because of her young age and is making a buzz on UK radio stations.

Eastern Eye carries on its long, proud tradition of giving great British stars expo­sure before they go interstellar by catching up with Riya to talk about music, her new single, future hopes and more...

Do you remember your first connection to music?

I’ve loved music ever since I can remember and have enjoyed singing. (Laughs) I remember I used to record myself on the iPad when I was seven or eight years old.

Who first discovered you had a singing talent?

It was around the age of 13 that my dad heard me sing a song that I had written, and he asked whose song it was. He couldn’t believe I had written it and started to coach me as he has a great understanding of mainstream music. This has really helped me to improve.

What led you towards your debut single?

Last August I sang at the Leicester mela. It was my first public performance outside of school and a fantastic experience. Straight after com­ing off-stage I was approached by Shayal, an amazing producer from London. He said he could see potential in me and we started work­ing towards this debut single. I was so excited.

How did you feel going into the studio for the first time?

I was nervous because it was a new environment and not something I was used to. I quickly realised that recording in a studio is very different to performing live, but it’s so important to be able to feel relaxed as it’s a major part of being an artist. Now I feel at ease and look forward to my recording sessions.

Tell us about the song...

It’s a happy song about letting go of your wor­ries and having a good time with your girlfriends. The underlying theme is girl power. What really sparked it was the fact that my generation are so immersed in their phones and sometimes you’re trying to have a conversation and no one’s really listening, hence the lyrics.

Who are you hoping connects with the song?

I would love everyone to connect with this song, because I feel that so many people will relate to it in different ways. I hope people en­joy listening and take something from it. It has a very easy and fun Afro beat vibe and you can definitely dance to it too.

What was it like working with Shayal?

Shayal has been absolutely amazing and I’ve learnt so much from him. We have really bond­ed and he’s got to know what I like. If I’m not happy, he can tell straight away. He started off as my producer, but now he’s more like an old­er brother to me and has always got my back. I’m so lucky to have him.

How do you feel in the lead-up to the new song’s release?

I am really excited, but a little bit nervous too. I’m a shy person off stage and it’s the first time I’m putting myself out there. I have put so much effort into this and just hope that people will love and appreciate the song and me as an artist too.

You were approached for music reality TV shows, but is that something you would con­sider when you are older?

Yes, I was actually really surprised and flattered when a major ITV programme approached me; I honestly felt so honoured, but wasn’t able to take up the opportunity due to not being old enough. At this moment, I’m putting all my energy into this debut and follow-up singles, but I’m defi­nitely not ruling anything out for the future, it all just depends on my situa­tion at the time.

Who is your favourite singer?

Over the years I have been influenced by so many people and different types of genres. My taste has evolved over time. Currently Drake is my favourite singer, because I connect with his music and what he writes about.

What type of music dominates your own per­sonal collection?

Again, it’s changed over the years as I’ve listened to so many types of music. When I was lit­tle, I listened to Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, Ri­hanna and many others, and my main genres are pop, soul and r’n’b. I love all three and hopefully will be able to write music that cap­tures all of them.

What would be your karaoke song of choice at the moment?

It would probably be Diamonds by Rihanna, as it’s quite soulful but pop at the same time. I feel it suits my voice and tone, and I’m able to express myself through it.

What is your own musical masterplan go­ing forward?

With God’s blessing, I would really love my music to get out to as many people as pos­sible and for the world to know who I am. My dream would be to perform on the world’s biggest stages like Wembley Stadi­um and Madison Square Gardens. I would also love to do a lot of charity work around the world, help those less fortunate than myself and hopefully make a small differ­ence. This has been a major motivator for me. Right now, I’m working as hard as I can because music truly is my passion.

Are you looking forward to performing on the live circuit?

Oh yes! I really love performing live. Con­sidering I’m quite a shy person, I’m surpri-singly the most comfortable on stage as I’m able to really express myself. I definitely see this as being one of my main strengths.

Who would you love to work with?

There are quite a few artists that I would love to work with. Ultimately it would probably be Drake and Rihanna as I know they would bring something different to my music. I would defi­nitely be star-struck if that day ever came.

What do you like doing away from music?

I’m quite an artistic person and love drawing and painting. It’s a different way of expressing myself as it’s quite peaceful and therapeutic. Music can get quite crazy and chaotic at times.

What or who inspires you?

Different people have inspired me for different reasons. For example, I really looked up to Mi­chael Jackson as he was a musical genius, amazing dancer and one of the most talented people that has ever lived. Even if I could be a small fraction of what he was, I would be over the moon. I also look up to amazing singers like Mariah Carey, Beyoncé and Arianna Grande as they inspire me to improve my vocals.

If you could learn a musical instrument, what would it be?

I already love playing the piano, but it would be amazing if I could learn the guitar as well. I think it’s a great writing tool and creates a dif­ferent dynamic.

Why should we pick up your debut single?

You should pick up my debut single for so many reasons. It’s a fun song which will appeal to so many age groups. Starting out my career as a young British Indian female doing main­stream music, I would love everyone’s support as I believe I can bring something different to the industry. I would love to be a role model for young girls.

Why do you love music?

Music is my world! I can’t remember life with­out it. It makes me happy and I can capture so many different emotions depending on how I’m feeling at the time. Although I’m still so young, I already can’t imagine doing anything else. I’m so excited for the future!

• No Time by Riya is out now