Canadian singer-songwriter RISHI unveils his debut album, "Treading Water," a deeply personal collection of songs that reflects his journey through the music industry and his own life’s challenges. This album signifies a pivotal moment in RISHI’s career, marking his evolution as an artist who has fought against industry expectations and embraced his true self.
Crafted over the past year, "Treading Water" is a testament to RISHI’s determination to stay true to his voice, free from the confines of management or label interference. After spending a year writing and composing, RISHI returned to Canada in September 2023 to independently record, executive produce, and create music videos for the album, fulfilling his promise to his late grandmother.
The album captures RISHI’s experiences navigating his 20s, delving into themes of sadness, grief, and the relentless passage of time. Yet, amidst these emotions lies a journey toward self-love. Though deeply personal, "Treading Water" resonates universally, offering listeners a soundtrack for their reflections on growing up, loss, and the pursuit of inner peace. RISHI hopes these narratives inspire listeners to find hope and gratitude in their own lives. His other singles showcase the emotional depth and vulnerability that define "Treading Water." These tracks provide a window into RISHI’s struggles and triumphs, offering listeners an intimate look into the emotions that fuel his music. Each song reflects a piece of his journey, underscoring the powerful connection between artist and listener.
RISHI’s journey began at 18 when he signed his first record deal with a major US label right after high school. Discovered by an LA agency through an audition tape, his talent was clear, but he quickly faced pressure to conform. As a young Indian artist, he was labelled "not marketable" and criticized for his appearance. This led to a difficult "artist development" phase, where he was urged to change his image and create music that wasn’t true to him.
Despite his efforts, both his first and subsequent record deals fell through. After four years of recording and rejection, RISHI returned to Canada, facing personal struggles and an uncertain future in music. His grandmother’s unwavering support reignited his passion, urging him to keep pursuing his dreams.
Determined not to let his dreams pass him by, RISHI returned to the studio as a solo artist during the pandemic. He began writing his songs, using music to cope with his fears and anxieties. In early 2022, just before moving to LA to collaborate with other artists, RISHI's grandmother was diagnosed with aggressive cancer. He stayed home to care for her, and her passing in the summer of 2022 profoundly impacted him. One of her final wishes was for RISHI to pursue his dream and become a great rockstar. Motivated by her words, RISHI moved to LA, where he found supportive friends and collaborators who helped him honour his grandmother's wish.
This album signifies a pivotal moment in RISHI’s career, marking his evolution as an artist who has defied industry expectations and embraced his true self. Coming hot off a hit launch show at the historic El Ray theatre in LA, Treading Water is already resonating with listeners, earning 5,000 daily streams and 250,000 organic streams on Spotify since release - a testament to the album’s quality. With this growing engagement and love for him and his music, RISHI is also in the running to be the next iHeart Radio Future Star! Tor Hermansen of Stargate – a writer and producer on “Firework” by Katy Perry, “Diamonds” by Rihanna, and “Irreplaceable” by Beyoncé – has stated, “We have worked with a lot of amazing singers, and you RISHI are up there.”
Words Platform Desk
Date 12.11.2024