Check out our interview with talented European-Indian artist Ridi who released her debut single and music video for “Top Guy” on August 14th, 2021.
At an elitist Swiss boarding school, Ridi found herself constantly attacked with rumors, hate, and racial slurs, only to be kicked out of the school as a backlash to her standing against it. Ridi has dealt with a lot in her life and is making a point of it on her new single and its video.
Like artists before her also wise beyond their years — Lorde, Fiona Apple, and Billie Eillish — Ridi is rising above it all having learned it doesn’t define her, as well as helping others realize the same whether through her music or the non-profit “Stop the B” that she co-founded with her sister.
Stop the B has gained her props from famed footballer Ronaldinho, world renowned independent academics, as well as an invitation to speak at the UNESCO World Anti-Bullying Forum in Sweden this coming November, honoring Ridi with the distinction of being the youngest participant to ever speak at the esteemed event.
Follow Ridi @realridi
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We’re sure you have been asked this million times but how did you get in the industry?
From a young age I’ve always had a love for music. Apart from the usual running around and screaming melodies at the top of my lungs, I took formal training in Classical music when I was around 8, and then growing older, I dabbled with a bunch of other genres and finally made my way into the pop field. But around three years ago is when I went through a messed-up time and told myself I really wanted to be able to express myself in a way that other people who are going through the same things could understand me. So, with the support from my family (which I’m so grateful for), I released my debut single “Top Guy”!
How has this changed your life?
It’s definitely made me realize that I’m not alone in what I feel, and that so many other young people have to go through shit times, and the fact that I can help them has definitely impacted my life in the most positive way. I also feel that it’s made me take on a lot more responsibility. Making music is a lot of responsibility, since your song is basically a representation of who you are as a person. So with everything you make, you have to really ensure it’s what you want portrayed of yourself.
Tell us about your new single “Top Guy?”
Top Guy is an extremely personal song to me. I went through a difficult time when I was expelled from the school in which I had spent the past six years, only because I stood up for myself and spoke out against the harassment I faced. The fact that I felt so much oppression and injustice pushed me to vent out my feelings in this song. I hope that people that listen to it can feel that I stand with them through my music. The best thing you can do is not give a shit about what other people say. In the end, it’s still you who has full control. Just keep being your best and shout back even louder!
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
Knowing that someone is truly enjoying your song! Whenever I read a comment and someone mentions how the song has helped them through a tough time, I’m like full of dopamine (laughs) because that’s what my music is there for. And if my music can ever achieve that with someone, that is the most rewarding thing ever!
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Loyal. Over-thinker. Total dork for the Sciences
Describe your sound in 3 words?
Definitely Raw (I love having real instruments in where I can). Expressive (I love jazz and so tend to love expression). Dramatic (I love my music enforcing super dramatic emotions).
Do you play any instrument?
Ah! Okay, so I’m a complete noob at piano, but I know enough to get by (laughs). I used to play flute, but that was centuries ago.
What book should every entrepreneur read?
Ooo, I’m not sure, I have loads of super big books lying around which I feel I should read but never do. For example: “American Affairs Volume 2. I’m sure an entrepreneur should/would have read that, but for now it’s just dormant on my shelf.
What would say are the greatest lessons you learned so far?
People won’t believe in you unless you believe in yourself.
How would your best friend describe you?
My best friend would probably have to be my sister, and she’d probably say I’m super loud and childish (but I know she loves me!).
If you are a book, what would be the title of the book and why?
My ‘IB DIPLOMA PROGRAMME-Chemistry 2014 EDITION’ textbook. Because I practically live by that book in school! And I’m in my last year of school so am practically a study hobbit.
What is your favorite healthy food?
Celery and a fancy dip thingy, like hummus or a yogurt dip.
And your favorite cheat food?
Spicy French Fries. Which are basically normal French fries with a bunch of chilies on them. Think Western society meats Asia (laughs).
How would you explain your fashion style?
Comfort meets edge! But to be fair, I just take my sisters advice on what to wear. I’m still young and learning what I like, but I do know I love anything with glitter and spikes and adore suits.
What is your own definition of happiness?
I’m not sure. I guess I’m still figuring that out. I don’t think anyone can be truly happy. We all have things we want to achieve. No one is perfect. It’s scientifically not possible to have a perfect system.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
I’d like to meet Ben Shapiro. I feel like he’s perfected the art of arguing (mostly for the correct things). And I’d love to understand how he can be so confident while being ‘attacked’ from all sides!
Best advice ever given?
Free time is overrated
Favorite song?
Too difficult! Don’t have one!
Book?
My physics study guide. That thing has helped me through so much.
Movie?
Caroline (the one with the girl with button eyes).
TV Series?
The Haunting!
Travel Destination?
India, Calcutta-ITC hotel. They have the best food ever.
Photo credit: Courtesy PRO Tunes
