Today we’d like to introduce you to Riah B.
Riah, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I was born and raised in Cleveland, OH. Since a young age music sparked my interest I was always writing songs, poems, letters, really whatever I felt. I grew up being inspired by Aaliyah, Brandy, Beyonce and Chris Brown. Those were my favorites. I would practice their songs over and over. My entire family came from a musical background and so I was brought up singing in church. Although I loved music so much, as I got older, I became a bit shy. I went through school kinda not revealing my talent much. Then a year after high school, I remember being in my room on Soundcloud. I decided to just make a profile, the next day I posted it. I guess you can say from there it was a wrap. I had always had the passion for music but after hearing my vocals back, I knew I had something special. I began writing songs more. I would record with my cousin Ziyon on his laptop. I felt like a girl who had finally falling into her purpose. Later that year I was introduced to my producer Jahgotthejuice (Jameel Miller).
From there I started to develop my sound, it was very natural soulful and sensual, focusing on my tone and harmonic melodies. I started coming up with these videos called Rimix which was like a remix but with Riah’s spin on it. Those were very unique and would get people following me and recognizing me as a singer. I then released my first single “Playlist” with my producer in 2019. Then later I met another producer named Matlock (William Matlock) who also contributed to my first project. I released “Where I stand”. In 2019 and this was such a moment for me. The Ep stood for standing in your purpose, knowing exactly who you are and letting people finally see where You stand in this world. The Ep was definitely a statement and people responded really well. Okay, now that I was an artist I felt I had to move like an artist should. I released a couple more singles and performed at a few local shows but then I decided it’s time to reach a bit more than my city. That meant I had to make a different move. So I decided to move to Atlanta Georgia to further my music career. I had no idea the next steps but I started just trying to go to any music events in hopes of meeting like-minded people. One day I went to a music launch party and just asked to plug n play my music on the aux and they allowed it. I played one of my new singles and they loved it. People started asking my name and for my contact information.
From there I started building with other singers, producers and songwriters just trying to network as much as possible. I met another producer that year Chris Davis who produced and co-wrote my single ‘Neva’ which I released in 2021. It was a very unique sound for me, I wanted to show a bit of versatility on that one. I put together a cast and directed my own video for the song too. It turned out amazing and really kept things moving in the right direction for me. So now a year later, I’m still here in Atlanta working as an artist and a songwriter. I’ve met and worked with a lot of incredible producers, songwriters, etc. My goal is to inspire the world using my gift. I always hope that I can be a positive example for everyone going after their dreams. To have faith as I did and just go for what you love. My story is still being written but I have no doubts that I will continue to go far. Just trust the gift that god gave you and let him guide you. That’s my motto.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No, I’ve had obstacles along the road but it’s honestly a learning opportunity. When I moved, I was alone and having to recreate and find inspiration to keep me going mentally and physically until an opportunity fell in my hands. I feel like anything rejected was God redirecting me into the right rooms. Now I’m seeing results, flowers never bloom overnight.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am an Artist, Singer and Songwriter. I started my music career four years ago. During that time period, I released a few singles and My first Ep entitled “Where I Stand”. This project symbolized “authentically knowing your place in the world and revealing who you are to others”. I released a series of music videos following the records displaying my Image, Art and Performance skills and now I am working to grow my brand furthermore. I’m very true to myself but I’m an innovative thinker. I’m always wanting to create In different ways and that’s what sets me apart.
Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
My favorite childhood memory was singing in a talent show as a kid. It was so funny because I was always so shy so I remember people not expecting me to sing or dance. I look back at those videos and just laugh at my song choice and outfits. At the time I thought I was untouchable and I remember how many times I dragged my cousin to rehearse her parts. I knew after that performance she was done and would never agree to sing with me again, lol.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riahbmusic/?hl=en
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCi8dC6niw2TV28MhGVvwQPw
Image Credits
3rd image credit @itsjustsnook 4th image credit @shanfotografia
