Orayvia has been making waves since her 2020 debut, with her emotionally raw, sonically polished fusion of RnB, hip-hop and pop. In this interview, she discusses her upcoming album, which sees her embracing new stylistic elements, from drill influences to electronic elements, all while staying true to the vulnerability that defines her music. She reflects on the challenges of artistic evolution, the importance of fostering community through music, and how she stays connected with her fans despite being naturally introverted. With new collaborations on the horizon and a commitment to storytelling that resonates on a deeper level, Orayvia proves that growth and authenticity can go hand in hand.
Orayvia, welcome to A&R Factory! Since your 2020 debut, you’ve released hit after hit and proven your versatility as an artist. Before we get into what’s in the pipeline, for anyone new to your sound, how would you define it?
Thank you so much for having me! This is truly an honor! Well a little bit about my sound, it’s a blend of soul, R&B, hip hop and pop with a modern edge. I like to describe it as emotionally charged and unapologetically authentic music that moves both the heart and the body.
If you could name one crucial component of your style which ties your discography together, what would it be?
The one thread that ties all my music together is vulnerability. No matter the tempo or the genre I’m exploring, my songs always come from a deeply personal place, and I think my audience can feel that honesty.
What projects are you currently working on, and how are these upcoming releases a departure from your previously released singles?
Right now, I’m working on an album. It’s practically finished but it pushes the boundaries of my sound. It’s more experimental, with influences from drill, and electronic elements, which feels like a departure from the more straightforward R&B/pop singles I’ve released in the past. The storytelling is also evolving it’s more introspective and layered this time around.
What challenges have you faced while refining your sound and exploring new genres while staying true to your roots?
The biggest challenge has been maintaining balance staying true to my core while embracing growth. Sometimes, experimenting with new sounds feels like stepping into the unknown, but I remind myself that growth doesn’t mean losing who I am; it’s about adding new dimensions.
What inspired your upcoming projects and are there any messages you hope to share through your upcoming releases?
Life itself has been my greatest inspiration the highs, the lows, and the in-between moments of self-discovery. With my upcoming releases, I want to communicate the beauty of vulnerability, the power of resilience, and the importance of embracing your truth, even when it’s messy.
Can your fans expect any collaborations in the future?
Absolutely! Collaborations are such an exciting way to expand my creative vision. I’m currently in talks with a few artists whose work I admire, and I can’t wait to share those partnerships when the time is right.
Your fans are clearly important to you; how do you ensure you stay connected with your audience?
I make it a priority to interact with my fans regularly through social media and am working on new ways to be able to keep that foundation. A lot of people don’t know but I’m very introverted. I am working on doing behind the scenes content and storytelling around my music to give them a deeper connection to my creative process.
You have previously expressed a desire to launch fan-driven projects to bring your community even closer together. How important do you believe it is to establish communities through sound?
I think music has the incredible power to unite people. By creating fan-driven projects, I hope to build a space where listeners feel seen and heard. Whether it’s through shared stories or interactive content, fostering that sense of community is vital to me.
What does artistic growth look like to you and how has the progress you’ve made influenced your new work?
Artistic growth, to me, is about pushing boundaries and constantly challenging myself to evolve without losing sight of who I am. The progress I’ve made has taught me to embrace fearlessness, and that confidence has seeped into my new work. It’s a reflection of where I’ve been and where I’m headed a fusion of past lessons and future possibilities.
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Stream Orayvia’s discography on Spotify and connect with her via Instagram.
Interview by Amelia Vandergast