Bella Rios – Sincerely,

By starrymag | December 20, 2024

By: Jennifer Vintzileos

 

 

Q) Tell us the story behind your latest single “Options.” 

A) I wrote “Options” about your typical toxic situationship. Well, I actually wrote it once I was ready to leave a particularly addictive one. After an embarrassingly long time of accepting the bare minimum, I woke up one day and realized that I was better off alone, or, really, with any other fish in the sea than I was going in circles with someone who didn’t care enough to treat me well. I wrote this song to remind myself of that.

Q) Since its release, what has been the reaction to “Options” from fans and listeners?

A) Hearing how the song has spoken to them when they need that independent boost of confidence has been so special. But I have to admit, one of my favorite reactions every release is my friends when they, without fail, add the new songs to our night out pregame playlist rotation.

Q) “Options” has also been added on streaming platform TIDAL’s Pop Rising Playlist. What did it mean to you to see your work featured on such a prominent platform?

A) I mean, honestly, hearing that anyone listens to and thinks highly of my music means so much to me. But, of course, having it be recognized by a tastemaker like that feels just so incredible and, in a way, gives me a renewed source and sense of confidence as I keep pursuing music.

Q) With the release of “Options” you released your debut EP Sincerely, earlier in May. What was it that you loved the most about recording this EP? 

A) Hmmm – that is incredibly tough – because, really, every step of seeing your work come to life like that is exciting. But if I had to pick… I’d say the moment all of the tracks were finally mastered, and I could sit down and listen to the whole EP through. I think, even though I knew what I was working toward, hearing the culmination of that finally realized was pretty surreal and unbelievably rewarding.

Q) Which song was your favorite to record for Sincerely, and why?

A) Probably “In the Dark…” While I love all of the songs, “In the Dark” is one of my favorites to sing, in general, because it just has such a strong, lyrical groove, especially in the pre chorus. It also sits in a really comfortable part of my range. Those things helped the technical parts of the recording process that can sometimes distract from my emotional performance fall to the wayside which is especially freeing and fun.

Q) In addition to your music career, you’re also a senior at Princeton University! How have you balanced your music and student life?

A) The best way to describe my life the last four years would be “ever so slightly controlled chaos.” Balancing my musical pursuits with academic goals and trying to remain relatively sane and social has been tough, I won’t lie, but what an amazing problem to have. I feel incredibly blessed to be in this position. As for how I’ve tried to achieve them all, well, I think each of them fuels my happiness and fulfillment in different ways, and once I realized that, I made a personal commitment to never abandon any of one of them. I enter each day with the aim of finding time for each of them because they make me myself, the most joyful and confident version too.

Q) While working on music, your friends have become your test audience before taking it a larger audience. How has their opinions on your music also influenced the style of music you create?

A) I think their opinions, or what I imagine they will be, subconsciously influence my music by kind of being in the back of my mind throughout the creative process. While I try to not let public perception dictate my work, because, after all, part of what is so rewarding about making your own music is that it can be so personal and just for the sake of your own growth or healing, one of the other greatest feelings in the musical process comes from seeing other people connect with and love your music. So, when I’m writing, recording and finishing songs I think: 1. Do I love this? and 2. Would my family and friends love to listen to this? Because those experiences are the ones that determine how much joy my music brings me, whether through personal reflection or witnessing its impact on those I love and whose opinions I value.

Q) You took to the stage for your final performance of the year in NYC. Are there plans for more performance dates in 2025?

A) Yes!!! I loveeee performing and am always looking for the opportunity to. I’ll definitely be sharing concrete details about gigs in the near future on my socials. [smiles]

Q) Have you already headed back into the studio for a new EP or album to come in the new year?

A) That’s a secret I’ll never tell… Ok [laughs] But, seriously… I’m always working on new music, and 2025 will definitely be bringing some with it.

Q) What is the one greatest piece of advice you would give to individuals who are looking to pursue music? 

A) If you love it, do it. Don’t let all the other things you’re worried about let it take the back seat. Be open to any and all opportunities. Do everything in your power to make it your life. Easier said than done, I know. But that’s the pep talk I sometimes need to give myself too.

Q) Who are some current artists you would love to collaborate with on music in the future?

A) Oh my gosh, literally an impossible question. I listen to and love soooo many different types of music and artists. Hmmm. If I had to rattle off the first few that come to mind… Jon Bellion, Chappell Roan, Ed Sheeran, Reneé Rapp and Bruno Mars. But there are definitely a million more that I definitely blanking on right now.

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who are fans and supporters of you and the music you make?
A) Just thank you, a million times over. Your love of the songs is a massive part of what the music means to me and is the sole reason I’m lucky enough to pursue such a passion.

 

 

Listen to “Options”

 

Explore Bella Rios’ Debut EP – Sincerely,