Author: NY Weekly Staff

If you are an ardent music lover who loves to discover new music, Ryah Shata has an upcoming single for you. Born on 16th November, 1999, the 22 year old talented musician began her journey over four years ago. R.SHE was always passionate about music and began composing at a rather young age. She worked at a job where her task was to roll silverware which she used to do at the back of a hidden stairway. She was the sole worker during her shift which is why she did not really have the chance to socialize with anyone. Thus, she began writing songs which she thoroughly loved doing. It felt like a sweet escape from the monotonous drudgery and troubles of reality. 

Ryah has been working extremely hard on her new single- ‘Wanderlust’ which is all set to release on 20th April this year. The track has a gloomy undertone with beautiful and relatable lyrical composition. She uses metaphors such as ‘blue bird’ that is used to indicate the lover who has arrived to visit her. The song depicts love, loss, solitariness and grief in a heartfelt way. “The song is a depressing one but with a great vision and story, and lovely harmonies that accompany it. It’s very expressive”, she further stated. R.SHE has invested an enormous amount of time, hard work and toil into developing this music and sincerely wishes that all her feelings and projection reach the soul of the listeners. Ryah has also produced a music video for this song which has further increased the anticipation level of her fans. This song is more special to Ryah since her twin brother, Ryan Shata, who is the creative director, has also invested a lot of effort into making this. Ryan has always been a source of inspiration and motivation for her which is why the entire song making process was very impactful as well as fun. 

Ryah Shata has always loved to experiment with music. She believes that it will expand her domain and help her make better music. Thus, you can always expect something new and unique in her songs. When asked about what was the best part about her journey, Ryah Shata replied, “Creating new Melodie’s has been my favorite thing about my journey,” Ryah has always maintained that while her own satisfaction with her music is of preliminary importance, she ultimately does it to connect with her audience. Thus, make sure to follow her on spotify so that you do not miss out on this upcoming hit: https://open.spotify.com/artist/41Fun0396ogig3wGvBqphn?si=Y_mnjzSyRd2OPaL_CpWX9w

Many musicians end their careers after their one-hit-wonder, failing to maintain their momentum. But Paapa Versa proves that he is here to stay, as the multi-talented artist is currently working on his third album, Versa Villa, to be released this year. Paapa Versa is on a roll, and he is ready to take on greater heights. Besides his upcoming, highly-anticipated album, the artist has also launched his podcast called A Sound Conversation featuring thoughtful conversations with insightful guests about life, music, and the business of pursuing both. 

Paapa Versa is a Ghanaian singer-songwriter, rapper, producer, and podcaster, creating masterpieces that inspire many young contemporary and alternative artists in his home country. The artist is revolutionizing how music lovers know alternative music by fusing traditional African rhythms with his contemporary instruments and hints of Afropop. His songs have proven that Paapa Versa is truly one of the most creative and unique artists of his time.

Among the many milestones he has achieved, Paapa Versa highlighted three of his proudest accomplishments. He was nominated for awards across Africa, namely Best Alternative song at the 3 Music Awards 2021, Alternative Song of the Year at Ghana Music Awards, UK 2021, and Discovery of the Year during the Africa Gospel Music Awards 2013. 

Although Paapa Versa is achieving momentous milestones in his career, that is not to say that he did not encounter his fair share of struggles. He grew up with a terrible stutter, but music became his primary mode of expression, an instrument that allowed him to communicate who he was with those around him. By consistently pursuing his music and also joining theater productions in high school, the artist eventually enriched his fluency and gained more control of his speech.

“Growing up with a stutter, I thought I was inadequate for words. I found refuge in music when I was four, and I’ve lived there since. My stutter never left, and music didn’t either. Now a little older, I’ve realized words, on their own, are inadequate for me. I pour my heart out in songs,” Paapa Versa said. 

Besides his own passion for music, Paapa Versa was blessed to belong to a family that loved music. His parents both have musical backgrounds and encouraged him to learn musical instruments. First, he played the piano, and by age 12, he took on the guitar, and his journey went on. At 17, the artist performed at bigger stages and fiercely launched himself in the Ghanaian music scene when he joined Skillions New Generation, a hip-hop collective formed by legendary Ghanaian producer Jayso, along with Lil Shaker, Joey B, Rumour, Kevin Beats, Killmatic, and many more. Paapa Versa took part in the release of Skillions – New Generation Mixtape, where he launched his self-produced single “Life Is Short,” which gained a high regard for its sharp lyricism and Avant-garde production. 

Asked who he takes inspiration from aside from his family, Paapa Versa shared that he has been awestruck by the artistry of Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Agya Koo Nimo, Osibisa, Asa, Kirk Franklin, PJ Morton, Jon Bellion, and Lecrae. 

Soon after, Paapa Versa released his second self-produced album called Songs for Kukua, where its lead single, “Write for Me,” received acclaim from listeners worldwide and was played on various radio stations and TV channels.

Now on his third album, Paapa Versa is amplifying a powerful statement of his passion, talent, and dedication to music. Without a doubt, the artist will continue reaping the fruits of his labor not only in the African music scene but across the globe.

Ludovica Angelica Giusti, better known as Ludovica, is currently rising through the ranks in the world of music as a singer-songwriter, thanks to her distinctive discography and dedication to helping in the fight against homelessness. 

Originally hailing from Italy, Ludovica spent the first 17 years of her life in her homeland. Deeply interested in music, she used to be a street artist and even went to a conservatory where she studied piano, honing her skills in the process and maximizing her potential.

Eventually, spurred on by the desire to seek a new environment and reinvent herself, the promising talent moved to the United States and called Utah her second home. In 2019, she graduated from Utah Valley University with a degree in public relations and communications. From there, Ludovica began making waves in the music industry. 

Six months after officially delving into the scene, Ludovica managed to impress industry peers and listeners alike with the commercial success of one of her records, which was produced under the guidance of the record label Empire. 

Recently, Ludovica graced the set of KUTV and shared not only her journey toward the music industry but also the list of exciting projects that everyone can look forward to. In the interview, they talked about her latest single, “Answer,” which came out on March 29, and her upcoming show in Oklahoma on April 24. 

Ludovica was featured on Fresh Living, Utah’s best lifestyle show, and she loved every second of being on TV. “I love TV, every time I have the chance to go on TV, I just love it. I love the realness that comes with it, the experience was great, and I have nothing bad to say about it,” Ludovica gushed. She also shared that the staff basically made her feel at home.

When asked if she would appear on TV again, Ludovica answered, “Most definitely, I would say, and I hope so.” She added that Fresh Living has expressed that they would love to have her back for a live performance sometime soon.

Aside from her budding music career, Ludovica is officially a model for a fashion show in Atlanta on April 22. She is also opening for Trina in Oklahoma for Chronic Palooza, which is set to be the biggest concerts she’s ever done. She’s looking forward to the big crowd and big energy of the event.

Right now, Ludovica is going all-out as an independent R&B and pop singer. She is a must-watch force in the music scene, and more can be expected from this multifaceted figure as she carves a path toward the limelight.