Premiere: Riya Releases Vibrant Video for New Song ‘Permission’

Although singer-songwriter Riya was born in India, she moved to the U.K. at the age of two. Since then, she grew up around pop and Bollywood music while also gaining exposure to opera and classical theater. Riya also picked up dancing, which according to her helped her understand stage presence from an early age. The artist has released four singles since 2019. She says, “I’m proud to say that all my previous releases have been written and produced independently by me.” 

Now, Riya is out with a brand-new track called “Permission” and has also released a chic music video premiering on Rolling Stone India (scroll down to watch) to accompany the song.  

The artist began penning “Permission” at the start of 2022 after being inspired by a television show. “I began writing story-driven lyrics based on two characters in a toxic relationship. The song explores the notion of loving beyond reason, even if it breaks your heart – whether that relationship is between family, friends, or lovers,” she says. Sonically, the singer-songwriter juxtaposes elements of her Bollywood influences with her pop-synth sound. “My goal as an artist is to create a sonic identity that is unique to me,” Riya adds. “Permission” has been mixed by Alec Brits.  

For the track’s video, Riya came down to India and shot it in New Delhi. The colorful and vibrant clip showcases the singer in her regal best as she performs the song against idyllic backdrops. “I loved the idea of it being culturally immersive, and I’d never seen such breathtaking architecture and artwork, particularly in the Lodhi art district,” says Riya. The artist worked with project coordinator Ritika Gupta and videographer Nishchay Chabra and teamed up with New Delhi-based designer Anupama Gupta Clothing for the shoot. Riya then edited the video herself alongside Manchester-based photographer Yash Kalhan. She says, “It took a lot of planning and coordination, and it would not have been possible without the support of my family who live in New Delhi.” 

The next year is looking promising for Riya as she plans to release material that she’s working on with various producers and musicians. She says, “I’ll be releasing a new single every month, and I have a general theme of writing pop and dance-pop songs to well-known aphorisms and sayings.” The artist is also lining up a few live performances including festival slots and an upcoming tour. She adds, “I’m keen to work with producers and musicians in India; I hope someday soon, I’ll be back to perform live too.” 

Watch the music video for “Permission” below: