Introducing Riaan!

After years of studying and training, this talented R&B artist is ready to officially debut!

Please introduce yourself and describe your music!

Hi guys, this is Riaan. I’m a Korean singer for [a global audience]. Please go check out my debut single, the heartfelt R&B song “Treat Me Better.” I participated [in writing the] lyrics, and I tried to put feelings people in their teens and twenties can relate to in the song.

How did you develop your interests in and passions for dancing, singing, and playing instruments? 

I’ve had a couple of turning points [in] my music history, the [biggest one being because of] my mom. When I was a little kid, she showed me TV shows of pop stars performing live on the stage together with different genres every morning and night. That influenced me a lot and was the first step for me to get [familiar] with music. She let me learn how to play piano and guitar and has given me great support, with love for my dreams without any doubts or opposition.

Has the music you listened to while growing up influenced your original music?

Absolutely. Justin Bieber, Bruno Mars, The Weeknd, and more legendary musicians [shaped] my music tastes [and influenced] my vocals.

Why was “Treat Me Better” the right choice for your debut single? Did you almost pick a different song for your debut, or was it always going to be this one?

No doubt, when I first listened to this song, I knew this would be the one. The melody was good enough to fascinate me.

What were your experiences like training under SM Entertainment?

I was 18, living in California, and posting song covers on Instagram. [An SM Entertainment] casting director saw one and reached out to me, and that's how I came to Korea to start my trainee life. Every moment felt like I was living in my dreams. It was exactly what I was looking for and what I wanted most. When I first met the other trainees, I noticed there were more talented people [around me than I could have] imagined.

Both specifically and more generally, what skills and lessons did you take away from your time training with SM Entertainment?

My vocals and dancing improved a lot, and I learned a lot about being a person and how to approach music.

What has your time been like at the Seoul Institute of the Arts? 

[Attending has been] another significant moment in my musical life. I have had the chance to meet vocalists with unique styles, and I spend each day in a mix of excitement and anticipation. SIA has widened my perspective as a person and my music at the same time.

Lastly, is there anything else you want to say about yourself or your music?

We're just at the starting line now. I know it won't be easy, but the love and support from you all will not only fulfill me but enrich our music. Perhaps more than that, we can draw our stories and experiences together. This will be our “Nostalgiaa.”

Check out Riaan’s debut single here!

Answers have been edited and condensed for clarity. Photos courtesy of Nostalgiaa Records.