Interview by Nadia ten Hove and Jana Letonja

Renowned singer/songwriter Neriah, whose breakthrough album debuted on October 13, is making waves in the music scene. Known for her deep connection with fans, Neriah’s emotive and vulnerable storytelling elevates her music to new heights.

Her latest album is a profound reflection of life, embodying the transformative experiences that have molded her into the woman she is today. With a promising trajectory, Neriah is set to captivate audiences with a continuous stream of new releases throughout 2024, showcasing her unwavering commitment to her art and the ever-growing bond with her dedicated fanbase.

Get ready for an exciting journey into the heart and soul of Neriah’s musical evolution as we delve into this exclusive interview.

top GARETH PUGH

Your highly anticipated debut album released on 13th October. Can you give us a glimpse into the diverse themes explored across the 18 tracks and how they reflect your personal journey?

This whole album is a deep look into my last relationship and the feelings of closing a chapter that once meant so much. It was important for me to paint a picture for listeners to feel the emotions through each track. From the first time I felt the heartbreak to grief, denial, feelings of wanting revenge and finally accepting that it simply wasn’t meant to be. Each track is almost representative of a new diary entry because I was writing songs while we were ending something that was once so special. It means so much to me and I hope sharing my experience can help others to know that it’s okay to be sad. It’s okay to be mad. Feel all the feels.

You’ve received significant recognition and support from both fellow artists like SZA, Halsey, and Trevor Daniel, and your growing fanbase. How has their recognition impacted your creative process and the stories you want to tell through your music?

Having mentors to help navigate this world is so important to understanding how to best connect with your fans. I feel so grateful to have such amazing inspirations to help guide me through my journey. Music has always helped me through life’s challenges and I hope I can do the same for my fans with my storytelling in my music.

Your music often speaks to the experiences that have shaped you as a person. Can you tell us about a specific life event that profoundly influenced one of the songs on your debut album and how you translated it into your music?

Cause of Death is my story about an experience with a toxic relationship. I think in general it was such a wild experience that really made me understand what it’s like to have the ups and downs of having a partner. Being in an unhealthy relationship is so hard; once you find yourself in one it’s hard to get out.

Your strong advocacy for female empowerment is evident in your work. How do you channel this passion into your lyrics and melodies, and what do you hope young women especially take away from your music in terms of empowerment and self-expression?

Being an older sister, it’s really important to me that anyone who hears my music learns how to love themselves. If someone isn’t treating you right, once you realize it, you need to leave. It was such a

hard thing for me to learn, but making this album really allowed me to be confident no matter where I am in my life. I will only let myself be with someone that deserves me.

Beyond your music, your online presence is significant, especially on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. How do you leverage these platforms to not only share your music, but also create a sense of community and belonging among your fans?

My fans mean so much to me. I try to use all of my platforms to engage with all of them because I genuinely enjoy it. The noodles have such a community on all of the platforms and I hope everyone knows that I am always here for them.

dress PRABAL GURUNG

Looking ahead, you mentioned that fans can expect more new music throughout 2024. Could you provide a sneak peek into any upcoming projects or collaborations that you’re particularly excited about, and how do you plan to keep evolving your sound in the coming year?

So many exciting things are coming in the new year! Let’s just say we are going to be getting a lot more acoustic. Anyone that used to watch my covers on YouTube will be very happy.

What initially drew you to music and made you realize it was your professional path?

I’ve loved music for as long as I can remember. My parents say that I started singing before I really even could talk. I first realized this was a huge way for me to when I was five, so I think it has always just been in my blood.

What activities or hobbies inspire your creativity outside of music?

Music really is my first love. It’s been my creative outlet to help me process anything. When I’m not writing, I love bedazzling things, taking polaroids, writing love letters, and playing pickleball.

Can you share a challenging moment in your career and the lessons you learned from it?

Wow, lots of lessons! Writing a 24 track album was definitely very challenging, but I learned so much from it. The biggest takeaway I had is that you can do anything you set your mind to.

What surprises do you have in store for your upcoming residency night, and how does performing live connect you with your audience?

There are going to be lots of shows in 2024! Performing live as one of my favorite parts about making music. Witnessing the songs come to life in a live crowd is truly special.

Photographer & Stylist JAX LIN @shardsofdecency
Hairstylist CAITLIN KRENZ for Exclusive Artists using R+Co @caitlinkrenzbeauty
Makeup Artist CHARLENE LEFEVER @char.lefe
Photo Assistants JESSE LIN @dieselvenom & NATE WOLF @nateonline_