Their track record and reputation definitely precedes them, and after unveiling talents like Burna Boy, Mojeed, and Ceeza Milli to the general public, expectations were high when Aristokrat Records announced the addition of a new artiste. June 2, 2021 was the date and Ria Sean was the name. She was known to some who followed artistes on the come-up but new to many. Her talent was never in doubt – because Aristokrat sure wouldn’t sign someone lacking in that department – but there definitely was the question of just how talented she was. With the release of two singles and one EP since her signing, she has answered that question in loud and clear terms.
Born Gloria Asene Enebi, she quickly discovered her talent for singing and joined her church choir to exhibit and improve upon that gift. She cites the likes of Brandy, Chris Brown, Whitney Houston, and Frank Ocean as her biggest influences and at the age of 16, she set out to emulate her heroes by starting her music career professionally. It’s always tough operating independently but she did a great job of growing a sizeable fan base with her singles and a self-titled EP. But more importantly, she developed her sound and by the time Ariskokrat came calling, she had emerged with a fully formed trademark sound which featured a blend of Afro-pop and R&B with Lo-Fi undertones.
With the release audio and visuals to “Lemonade” and “Money Bag” she seized the attention of listeners. She was able to bring a breath of fresh air to a sound that was becoming all too familiar, and the sensual energy she served on her videos certainly did her no harm. A guest appearance on “Who Talk” alongside Moelogo and Adekunle Gold boosted her profile even more so that by the time she announced she was dropping a project in September, the anticipation and expectations were high.
The EP titled “Fluid” was released on streaming platforms on September 3, 2021. It contains 6 songs with Ria Sean employing zero features on any of the tracks. That did nothing to take away from the quality of the music though; it was brilliant stuff all through. From clearly affirming her focus on getting to the money to oozing sexuality, Ria Sean covered a range of themes on a great selection of beats. Her lyricism was also applaudable as she dug deep rather than going the easy route of stuffing up on filler lines.
Ria Sean is indeed very talented and it’s exciting when you consider the fact that more layers to her gift will surely unfold as she continues on her journey. With the support of Aristokrat Records and by extension Island Def Jam Recordings which is a member of the Universal Music Group (UMG), she seemed poised to go far. The question of just how far she will take it will be answered as time passes by but we’re rooting for her regardless!