See Riya’s Choreographed Dance In ‘Don’t Have The Time’ Video

The last time we spoke to U.K.-based singer-songwriter Riya was in December 2022 when she released her song “Permission.” Since then, she’s gigged a lot across the U.K. and released two new singles, “Don’t Have The Time” and “Eye For An Eye.” Now, Riya is out with a brand new choreographed dance video for “Don’t Have The Time” which she filmed in India. In this interview with Rolling Stone India, Riya talks to us about being in India to make the video, what she’s currently working on, what’s next and more. Read below.

When did “Don’t Have The Time” begin to take shape and what can you tell us about the song?

I think I was first inspired to create ‘Don’t Have The Time’ after performing live at a festival. I often consider how my performances will relay on big stages or stadiums, and I wanted to create a song that audiences could get involved with while I perform so I kept the hook very simple. In terms of lyrical themes, the song is all about independence, empowering you to take control of your time and energy, because sometimes, you just don’t have the time, I think everyone can relate to that. Every minute is precious in life, and you’re allowed to be selective with who you’d like to give your time to. In terms of sonic imprint, it’s a sassy number placed on a playful percussive pop beat with brass interjections. It’s heavily influenced by my love for pop and you can hear elements of my Bollywood influences through the tabla percussion. I think having worked on my diploma in classical singing, loving theatre music the way I do, the horn interjections are a really fun addition.

What can you tell me about your experience of putting the video for it together?

The video for ‘Don’t Have The Time’ was shot in India and was so much fun. For me, music videos and visuals are instrumental in conveying stories and I’ve always been inspired watching them, so now having the opportunity to direct, and create them myself is incredible. I had a specific vision in mind, and I wanted the video to feel vibrant, sassy and free, reflecting the music. With careful choreography by J K Dance Academy, you’ll also get to see me dancing, and the performance definitely relays the sassy attitude – it was really nice getting back to my ballet and dance roots for this music video.

What are you currently working on?

I have a new single and music video coming shortly, you can expect lots of new music, chapters which will continue the storyline following ‘Don’t Have The Time.’ Very soon, you’ll see a music video for ‘Eye For An Eye’ as well as another single.

What’s next?

Some very big and exciting things are ahead, I can’t reveal too much but I am super excited to announce that I’ve been chosen to perform for the renowned Manchester International Festival in association with Factory International Festival this summer. I’m also thrilled to share that I’ve been selected as a BBC Introducing artist to solo perform at Headingley Stadium in front of 30,000 people at this year’s The Hundred. This is a privilege very few BBC artists are selected for and I am beyond grateful and excited to perform in August.

Watch the music video for “Dont Have The Time” below: