“Music is the one thing that keeps me going, it’s just always there when I need it.” This pronouncement is made in the dulcet tones of Shriya Rao in the midst of her number ‘Are You Down’, from her recently released EP titled ‘In a Box’. It’s more than just a lyric – this dialogue is Shriya’s philosophy of life, and her latest release is guided by it.
With all four songs written and sung by the Mumbai-based Shriya, the EP has been produced by noteworthy players from the industry including Yohan Marshall and Hersh Desai. The latter has also mixed and mastered a couple of the songs, while Pedro Peixoto, assisted by engineer Pedro Said and Fili Filizzola have contributed to the mixing and mastering of the other songs. Having worked with global heavyweights like Doja Cat, SZA, and Harry Styles in the past, these names also bring their expertise on board the EP to further enrich its sound.
The songs in the EP focus on Shriya’s journey of facing her vulnerabilities and channelling resilience to come out strong. She shares with candour, “The Indian R&B scene is buzzing and I’m so excited to be releasing my EP, ‘In a Box’ at this point in time. This collection of four deeply introspective tracks, penned when I was between the ages of 16 and 18, captures pivotal moments of feeling confined, and the introspection and emotional evolution they brought forth. This EP isn’t just a musical release for me — it’s an open invitation to step into my world and experience the raw emotions that defined my formative years.”
Shriya’s journey in this field began in her teens. Her debut single ‘Tell Me’ was released when she was 14-years-old. Since then, she has played at over 50 live venues across Mumbai and Pune such as the Royal Opera house, NCPA, St. Andrews auditorium, NSCI Dome and G5A. Shriya’s music is a fusion of contemporary R&B/Soul and Pop. She claims inspiration from
Over time, Shriya has developed a unique sound by blending jazz-infused melodies with influences of R&B and soul. Another single of hers, ‘Like That’, was bold and evocative, showcasing a different side of her oeuvre. “However, ‘In a Box’ marks a departure from what I’ve put out earlier, as I dive headfirst into vulnerability, heartbreak, and the struggles of navigating young adulthood here,” she says.
The EP’s title track, ‘Her’, came out in October last year. She describes this as, “the emotional centrepiece of the collection.” Speaking about the song, she says, “I wrote it when I was 16, and it is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of heartbreak and betrayal. Accompanied by classical piano and cinematic musical elements, I hope the soulful melody and emotionally raw lyrics of this song transport listeners into the depths of pain I felt and the healing process that eventually ensued. In life, we have all experienced someone breaking our trust in different ways. From childhood disappointments to the sting of infidelity, ‘Her’ is sure to resonate with everyone due to its universal theme of shattered trust.”
‘I’m Not Alright’ is the next track on the EP. Shriya describes it as “a candid acknowledgment of the mental health struggles I faced during my teenage years.” She highlights the song’s emotional lyrics and evocative instrumentation, hoping that they will help the audience connect with her struggles.
“The next track, ‘Are You Down’, shifts the focus to music as a source of solace and survival, showcasing how my art became my lifeline in turbulent times,” she says. “The EP concludes with ‘Dream About It’, which is a poignant reflection on self-doubt and resilience. Written during a period when I questioned the viability of a music career, I believe the track is a triumphant reminder of my unwavering passion and determination.”
Though complex emotions are the bedrock of Shriya’s work, she displays the ability to weave them into memorable melodies, calling upon elements of jazz, R&B, and soul. ‘In a Box’ marks her growth as a person maturing in age and as an artist who has developed layers to their craft honed by life’s experiences. “I do hope the EP’s deeply personal themes strike a chord with listeners, providing a soundtrack to their own moments of vulnerability and uncertainty,” she shares.
“This EP is my way of connecting with my audience on a deeper level,” adds Shriya. “It’s about showing them that they are not alone in their struggles and that there is always light at the end of the tunnel.”
Noor Anand Chawla pens lifestyle articles for various publications and her blog www.nooranandchawla.com.