Rising Stars: Meet Zayah Riley of Atlanta

Today we’d like to introduce you to Zayah Riley.

Hi Zayah, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I am from Florida but I do a lot of my business in Atlanta. I started my journey with a deep passion for music, performance, and storytelling. Growing up around music I was always drawn to creativity—writing, performing, and expressing real-life experiences through art. What began as writing lyrics and performing at local events quickly grew into a serious pursuit as I developed my sound, blending Hip-Hop and R&B with confident energy, authenticity, and emotion.

As I continued to perform, record, and release music, I began building a strong independent presence. Each project, live show, and collaboration helped me grow not only as an artist, but as a businesswoman and performer. I focused on creating clean, high-quality music, visuals, and live experiences that connect with diverse audiences.

Today, as Pretti Emage, I’m an emerging artist and entertainer committed to growth, consistency, and impact. From releasing new singles and music videos to performing at events and expanding my brand, every step has been about elevating my craft and inspiring others to believe in their vision. My journey is still unfolding, and I’m excited to continue building, performing, and taking my music to bigger stages.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t been a smooth road, but every challenge has helped shape me into the artist and person I am today. Like many independent artists, one of the biggest struggles has been building everything from the ground up without major industry backing. Funding my own music, videos, marketing, and performances required sacrifice, discipline, and a strong belief in my vision.

Another challenge has been learning the business side of the industry—branding, promotion, networking, and staying consistent while balancing everyday responsibilities. There were also moments of doubt, slow growth, and times when opportunities didn’t come as quickly as I hoped. Rejection and setbacks are part of the journey, but I chose to use them as motivation instead of discouragement.

Breaking through in a competitive industry as a female independent artist also comes with its own obstacles, including being taken seriously and creating space for my voice. But through persistence, continuous growth, and staying authentic to who I am, I’ve been able to keep moving forward.

The road hasn’t been easy, but the challenges have built my resilience, strengthened my work ethic, and made every accomplishment that much more meaningful.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a Hip-Hop/R&B recording artist, performer, and entertainer, professionally known as Pretti Emage. I specialize in creating confident, high-energy music that blends bold lyricism with smooth melodies, storytelling, and emotion. My work is rooted in authenticity—music that empowers, uplifts, and reflects real experiences while still being fun, polished, and performance-ready.

I’m known for my commanding stage presence, versatility, and ability to connect with diverse audiences. Whether I’m delivering high-energy anthems or more melodic, emotional records, I focus on giving listeners and live audiences a full experience. I also take pride in offering clean versions of all my music, making it accessible for festivals, radio, and community-focused events.

What I’m most proud of is building my career independently—releasing music and visuals, performing consistently, and growing my brand through hard work, discipline, and belief in my vision. Each project represents growth, confidence, and dedication to my craft.

What sets me apart is my balance of confidence and relatability, along with my professionalism and drive. I’m not just focused on making music—I’m focused on longevity, impact, and creating memorable experiences that inspire others to pursue their dreams unapologetically.

Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
One thing that might surprise people is how hands-on I am behind the scenes. While many know me for my confidence, performances, and polished brand as Pretti Emage, a lot of the work people see is built through my own planning, vision, and direction—from creative concepts and branding ideas to marketing strategy and career decisions.

Another thing people may not realize is that I’m naturally very thoughtful and reflective. The confidence and high-energy presence people see on stage comes from a lot of personal growth, discipline, and self-development behind the scenes. I take my craft, my image, and my purpose seriously, and I’m always working on becoming better—not just as an artist, but as a businesswoman and individual.

At my core, I’m driven by a bigger mission: to inspire confidence, resilience, and self-belief in others. The artistry is the spotlight, but the strategy, growth, and intention behind it are what truly power the brand.

Pricing:

• Live Performance (Local ): Starting at $1,500
• Live Performance (Out of Area): Starting at $2,500 + travel/accommodations
• Festival/Headlining Sets: $3,000+ depending on event size and duration
• Feature Verse (Music Collaboration Only): Starting at $1,500 + Studio Fee
• Feature Verse Plus Music Video: Starting at $2,500 + travel/accommodations (if shot out of area)

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.prettiemage.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pretti_emage
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/prettiemage
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/prettiemage
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@prettiemage
• Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/prettiemage
• Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2kEX6MftpXIL5plJDyMgtR?si=xHsbxAyuQ-Gr0693lCgu6g

Image Credits
Stylish Entertainment