There is something about singer, performer and songwriter Riah Laquida (real name Maria Simon)’s music that melts hearts and attracts people onto the dance floor.
She officially started her music career back in 2010, but her success and growth were only noticed since last year, when she decided to be committed and consistent.
Riah Laquida is known by songs such as ‘Pwiikinandje’, which features Mr Glo, ‘Marry Your Type’ featuring Page (Ethnix ) and ‘The Race of Life’, a tribute song to Mboma and Masilingi.
“When I started my music career, I had many responsibilities such as school, work and business. Honestly, I was finding it hard to focus on music. I am pleased to announce that I have now learned how to work around my schedule and manage time to accommodate my music career,” she said.
She says her music is diverse and flexible with different genres. However, for now she is focusing more on Afro pop and dancehall music.
“People listen to my music because it inspires, motivates and brightens moods. Anybody can listen to my songs and because they would always be able to relate to it. I have released a few singles and did several performances. What makes my music different and stand out from others is my unique voice and lyrical content. My music comes with quite a lot of messages. I sing about love and life in general. I sing motivational songs to keep my fans going and I throw in a little bit of gospel because I believe and trust in God,” she says.
She says getting her name out has been tough, but not impossible. She said she had to be consistent and worked extremely hard.
“Determination is also one of the key aspects to achieving success. I had to work extra hard and made sure to put my work out there. I always urge others who also want to start a career, to only do it because it its their passion. Never give up. Keep going and wait, because your time will come,” Riah Laquida says.
The performer says another contributor to the success of her career so far is focusing on the positive and avoiding activities that are not beneficial to her career and fans.
She says although there has been marked growth in the local music industry, many things still need to be done to improve the industry.
“There are so many artists with great potential in our country, but there are a few opportunities to showcase their talent and sometimes they don’t get accredited for their work,” she said.
She says she likes music because it always keeps her going and puts her in a good mood.
“I released my [first] single in 2020, and I got such a great response from the public and that really motivated me to keep going,” she says.
She says her music is mainly inspired by her life experiences and those of people around her.
However, she says music is not the only priority that is on her plate. She is also an aspiring nurse, a make-up artist, stylist and banker by profession.
She says she is determined to continue making sure that her music gets heard and she is currently working on a music video ‘Cousy’, a love song that she plans to release by the end of next month.
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