Irish singer-songwriter Ro Rivers has released her new single, Promise In My Bones, from her upcoming EP, Like a Fire. We asked her the BIG questions . . .
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Before launching her solo project, Ro worked as a songwriter and backing vocalist on a number of dance releases and live performances, including appearances at Glastonbury and on Later… with Jools Holland.
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
I'm a singer-songwriter from Ireland, currently living in Italy.
I’m drawn to songs that feel like confessions or the kind of things people don’t always say out loud.
I’m obsessed with vocals, in particular their tone, and the different ways they can carry emotion.
How would you describe your music?
Emotional pop that describes moments people usually keep to themselves. My songs tend to live in that space where you’re trying to understand what you’re feeling and whether you’re brave enough to admit it. My new single, Promise In My Bones, is about the moment when insecurity creeps in and you realise you need reassurance. That fragile moment before you decide whether to trust what you feel.
Who are your musical inspirations?
I’ve always loved artists who create atmosphere but tell very human stories, like Joni Mitchell and Kate Bush. I especially love how Kate Bush uses her voice. More recently I’ve been listening to artists like Billie Eilish, whose vocal production I really love, and Taylor Swift for her storytelling and lyrical hooks.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
East 17. When I was about twelve it felt like you had to pick a side, East 17 or Take That. I chose East 17, and when they came to Dublin, that became the first concert I ever went to with my friends.
What was the first record you ever bought?
Share My World by Mary J Blige. I still remember sitting with the CD and reading the lyric booklet while listening over and over.
What’s your favourite song right now?
So hard to choose! A song I’ve been listening to for the past while is Messy by Lola Young. I love how emotionally raw it is, the character in her voice, and the overall style.
Favourite lyric of all time?
The opening verse of Dancing in the Dark by Bruce Springsteen. "I get up in the evening and I ain’t got nothing to say, I come home in the morning, I go to bed feeling the same way". It’s such a simple description of feeling stuck; something I think most people recognise.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
So hard to choose but probably Dreams by The Cranberries. It’s one of those songs that still feels magical every time it starts.
Where can people find your music/more information?
My new single, Promise In My Bones, is available on all streaming platforms. Instagram, TikTok, YouTube.
Alan Corr
