NERIAH, the rising singer/songwriter, is stepping into a new chapter of her career with a vibrant shift from her previous heartbreak ballads to a more uplifting, pastel-colored era she fondly calls her Lover Girl phase. This transformation is marked by a refined, softer look and a collection of songs designed to light up summer playlists with their upbeat, feel-good vibes.
Celebrating newfound independence, NERIAH has been riding a wave of success, recently finishing a stint as the opening act for Madison Beer’s Spinnin Tour. This opportunity allowed her to debut her latest single, “First Time,” an 80’s-inspired synth-pop track that perfectly encapsulates the excitement and exhilaration of falling in love. The song’s nostalgic melodies and infectious energy make it a standout track, setting the tone for her forthcoming sophomore album.
“First Time” is just the beginning. NERIAH’s anticipated sophomore album is set to drop this fall, promising a collection of tracks that reflect the happiest and most empowered phase of her life. Her latest release, “Driving Weather,” continues this trend, offering retro Cali vibes with ethereal harmonies and playful lyrics. The track is a perfect anthem for sun-soaked drives, evoking memories of carefree summer days and young love.
NERIAH’s music journey has been nothing short of inspiring. With an audience exceeding 1 million monthly Spotify listeners and notable cosigns from artists like SZA, Halsey, and Ashe, her influence in the music industry is undeniable. Her honest, heartfelt lyrics resonate deeply with fans, taking them on an emotional rollercoaster through the highs and lows of life.
Her transition from the “sad girl” heartbreak ballads to the “Lover Girl” era signifies a period of growth and positivity. NERIAH’s new music is a testament to her resilience and her ability to find joy and inspiration in life’s beautiful moments.
Can you tell us more about the transition from your “sad girl phase” to the “Lover Girl era”? What inspired this change in your music and style?
N: I fell in love. I was so used to writing sad songs because I was in a really hard place when I wrote my last project and was trying to find a way out of a relationship that was extremely toxic and manipulative. Writing my last album really helped me find the strength to be able leave. I worked on myself a lot and ended up falling in love. I always have to write about what’s going on in my life so you will have all of the details when you hear the new music.
How does this new chapter of your career reflect your personal growth and experiences?
N: This new music really shows a lot of growth. You can hear it in the lyrics how much I have changed and also how differently I look at the world in relationships now.
Your new single “First Time” has an 80’s-inspired synth-pop vibe. What drew you to this style, and how does it differ from your previous work?
N: I’m so happy you said that because that is exactly what we were trying to go for. Before we sat down to write this new project we really experimented and studied a bunch of different eras and wanted to figure out what inspired me the most. Going back and listening to so many classic songs from the 80s was so much fun and definitely had a huge influence on this whole project. We were dancing and laughing throughout every single song. I’ve never made music like this, so it was very fun to be able to find a new character and sound to experiment with.
What can fans expect from your upcoming sophomore album in terms of themes and musical influences?
N: Fans can expect a lot of happy songs. I think this is the first project I have ever done that isn’t all about relationships. I am so proud of all of the storytelling and cannot wait for everyone to hear the lyrics.
Can you describe your creative process for writing and producing “First Time”? How do you capture the essence of falling in love in your music?
N: It’s so funny because I actually got to make this song with the person that I was falling in love with. We went on a little writing trip to Joshua tree with some of our amazing other collaborators and we figured out exactly what we wanted this record to sound like. there was so much magic in the room the song honestly wrote itself.
How has your approach to songwriting evolved with this new era of your career?
N: I definitely spent a lot more time, journaling and going through my journal to figure out exactly how I was feeling. The biggest difference is I’m usually so used to writing about things that make me sad, but this whole project is so much more than that.
You recently finished opening for Madison Beer’s Spinnin tour. How was that experience, and what did you learn from it?
N: Oh my goodness I could go on for days. It was genuinely the best experience of my life. I still can’t believe I got to play at the Greek theater. I learned so much. She is so amazing and such a sweetheart. I’m so grateful and lucky to have been apart of it.
How do you prepare for live performances, and what was it like debuting “First Time” on tour?
N: I always do my vocal warm-ups and make sure I’m being extra healthy. Throat coat is a must. It was so much fun fun playing first time on tour. It was crazy because the song wasn’t even out yet, and the crowd already knew the words.
Your new look features a refined, softer aesthetic with pastel colors. How important is visual presentation to your music, and how do you integrate it into your overall brand?
N: The visual aesthetic is so important to me. I spent so many hours on Pinterest making mood boards and finding inspiration. I really wanted this change in my life to make sense visually and from going to a coffin to pretty pastel colors felt right. I have such a vision for my music while I’m creating it so I think it’s really easy for me to figure out what it looks like.
Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind the visual elements of your new era?
N: Of course. This project means so much to me because I actually got to make a lot of the graphics myself. I really wanted to go for a collaged aesthetic so for the cover arts I actually cut out all of the elements from magazines and my graphic designer and I went back-and-forth until, we felt like it was ready. I’m such an arts and crafts girl so I try to integrate it into my brand as much as I can.
With over 1 million monthly Spotify listeners, how do you stay connected with your fans and maintain that relationship?
N: My noodles are my family. We talk every single day. We have group chats, FaceTime, you name it. My fans are the most important people in my life and I’m so lucky to call them family.
How have fan reactions influenced your music and the direction of your career?
N: I love giving them teasers to see which songs they are most excited for.
You’ve received cosigns from notable artists like SZA, Halsey, and Ashe. How has their support impacted you and your career?
N: It is so crazy to see support from so many artists that I look up to. I am so grateful and still have a mini heart attack when I see them like a random photo or video every now and then.
Who are some of your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped your sound?
N: I feel like this answer changes so much. Julia Michaels will always be my biggest inspiration. I also love the 1975, Sabrina Carpenter, robin, Japanese house, Griff, and Billie Eilish.
What are your goals for the future, both short-term with your upcoming album release and long-term in your career?
N: Short term definitely a lot more touring. Long term is to sell out the crypto arena.
Are there any collaborations or projects you’re particularly excited about that you can share with us?
N: Not that I can share, but let’s just say there is something very exciting in the works
Reflecting on your journey so far, what has been the most rewarding moment of your career?
N: Hands-down playing the Greek Theater when I opened for Madison Beer’s US shows.
Stay tuned for more updates on NERIAH’s upcoming album, and prepare to be captivated by the fresh, vibrant sounds that define this new chapter of her career. With her refined look and uplifting tunes, NERIAH is ready to make this summer one to remember.
The Hollywood Six 