http://youtu.be/X92IGVnMIdk
Riva
Riva is a young musician who beat thousands of auditionees, to be chosen as the winning artist of the Fame Music competition to record songs written by producer Tom Misner.
Tom is the co-founder and former CEO of The SAE institute and is currently in the process of recording Riva’s EP at the famous Abbey Road Studios. This unique artist is performed at the Sundown festival’s main stage, along side Boy George’s musical director John Themis. Her unique, powerful, soulful tone with a depth and power that touches people’s soul. Tom Misner wanted an earthy, organic singer-songwriter to be the voice if his songs, and Riva’s pop/soul style fit the bill perfectly. Her inspiration comes from artists such as Stevie Nicks, Tracy Chapman, Dusty Springfield and Amy Winehouse.
We had the chance to ask put a few questions to the upcoming artist.
What was the first thing you did after being told you’d won the Abbey Road contract?
I was so happy and excited and couldn’t quite believe I had been chosen, I called my mum and dad straight away to let them know!
How was it stepping into Abbey Road Studios to record for the first time?
It felt like a dream, I couldn’t quite believe it was real, I was so excited and it felt awe inspiring to step into a studio that has such amazing history and many musical genius is have recorded in.
Are you a Beatles fan?
Yes I am a Beatles fan, I grew up listening to them and they have inspired me so much Over the years. It was amazing to record in the same place as they did, I even went into the studio and had a little play on the piano that they used!
When did you first show musical aspirations?
When I was seven I received a karaoke machine for Christmas and I sang my first song In front of my family and I loved it! My grandfather who grew up in musical theatre said to my parents “that girl can really sing!” And arranged for me to have singing lessons. So from a very early age my talent was recognised and I knew that singing was all I ever wanted to do. Growing up I couldn’t think of anything better than pursuing a career doing what I love so much.
Who would you love to work with (other artist, producer or director)?
Ed Sheeran, I remember when he first came out and I immediately loved his style and talent, we also share in common that we both went to the same music Academy although not at the same time. Working with him would be awesome! I would also love to work with Pharrell and David Guetta.
As the site i works for covers a lot of TV news, we ask everyone this… What’s your favourite TV show?
Or what show would you like your music to appear on? I love Eastenders. I also Enjoy watching Britain’s got talent. It’s always been a dream of mine to have my music played in a film!
What are you doing next?
Next year is going to be very exciting as my first single will be released early in the year followed by my album that we are currently working on and recording at Abbey Road, We are currently planning more live performances, further dates and information will be available soon!
