Following the success of her debut single Top Guy, European songstress Ridi has released a Remix version of the self-penned track.
Ridi’s vocal talent was discovered when she began her musical training at just nine years old, learning classical and jazz music in New York. Later down the line, Ridi dabbled with opera in Switzerland, and eventually found her way into the pop scene some years later.
Singer’s Anti-Bullying Campaign
Away from the spotlight, Ridi experienced every teenager’s worst nightmare and being subject to countless rumours, cyber hate and feeling rejected, she wanted to make it was easy for the millions of others to embrace their own awkwardness, wear what they want and feel comfortable to fit into the shoes that are meant for them.
The singer co-founded StopTheB along with her sister Vasundra Oswal- an antibullying campaign with the express aim of turning young people into ‘active bystanders’. Ridi is now also the youngest ever person invited to speak at a UNESCO event on anti-bullying. She now plans to share this same message with the world through her music and hopes that other people who don’t fit the mould will hear her music and find their version of ‘cool’ within themselves, without having to change to who they think they need to be.
Ridi explains: “I’m actually just a little bit awkward. I’m still learning to understand myself and all my weird sides, and music was the friend that helped me talk. Loneliness can feel like a big, black hole, and hopefully my music will help others to embrace their own awkwardness.”
Ridi recently took time out to speak to Andy Howells about her music inspirations.
What was the first song that made an impact on you?
‘I Hope You Dance’ by Lee Ann Womack. My mum actually dedicated it to me when I was around eight before going to boarding school, so I was emotionally connected to a song the first time.
What was the first download you bought?
From what I can remember, most probably a Disney track; I used to love Cinderella, so I probably downloaded A Dream is a Wish the Heart Makes. I was obsessed with that song for a while.
What was the first album you owned?
I’ve never actually owned an album. I’m super picky about what I listen to, and I can never stick to one artist. Instead, I like to listen to various artists, so I pick songs from different albums and put them together in a playlist.
What’s your constant go to track?
It depends on my mood. When I’m tired and wanting to de-stress, it’s the piano version of different Disney songs. If I’m in the mood for some adrenaline, most probably some Michael Jackson.
What’s your constant go to album?
I don’t have one. Although I have a playlist on my phone called relaxation/chill, it contains lots of Mozart and Beethoven and a lot of classical/jazz music that has dark vibes, which really helps me get in my science zone. So probably that.
Who’s your latest music discovery?
I love Indila. There’s something about her voice that is very enchanting. It sounds like she cares. She has the difference to her, which I find incredibly cool.
What’s your own track that best defines you as an artist?
My debut single – Top Guy.
Being young, sometimes it feels like everyone around you has a say in your life and get to judge you (even if they’re not always correct & don’t really care about you at all). I hope that the people that listen to Top Guy can feel that I stand with them through my music, and that the best thing you can do is not give a s*** about what other people say, and in the end, it’s still you who has full control.
Just keep doing and being your best, shout back out even louder & don’t let anyone drown out your voice.