From Attic Inspiration to Global Sensation: The Story of Riya's 'Kismet'
A talented vocalist from Walsall has shared the remarkable journey of how a fleeting moment of creativity blossomed into a beloved musical masterpiece heard by millions worldwide. Performing under the stage name Riya, which draws from her Indian heritage and means "singer" in Sanskrit, Laura Pacheco Hill has transformed a simple 30-minute idea into an enduring anthem that resonates deeply with audiences across the globe.
A Musical Journey Rooted in Black Country Beginnings
Born and raised in Pelsall, Riya's passion for music was nurtured from an early age through family influences, particularly soul and gospel traditions from her mother's side. Her artistic path took a decisive turn when she discovered the vibrant drum and bass scene in Birmingham, accompanying her brother to legendary venues like the Custard Factory and the Que Club. "It felt like I belonged there and I fell in love with the music," Riya recalls, highlighting how these experiences ignited her lifelong dedication to the genre.
Without formal musical training or qualifications, Riya's career has been built on sheer determination and innate talent. After securing an internship with Hospital Records in London during her university years, she began working behind the scenes in public relations. It was through networking that her vocal abilities were discovered, paving the way for her emergence as a prominent figure in the drum and bass community.
The Creation of a Modern Classic: 'Kismet'
Among Riya's extensive catalogue, which explores themes of love and depression with soulful depth, one track stands out as particularly special. 'Kismet', a collaboration with acclaimed producers Hybrid Minds, was conceived in a modest attic room in London during a burst of inspiration that lasted just half an hour. "I had arrived home and felt really inspired writing it and didn't even know it would be anything," Riya explains, reflecting on the song's humble origins.
Despite initial uncertainties about sharing the demo, Hybrid Minds embraced the composition wholeheartedly. A decade after its release, 'Kismet' continues to captivate listeners, nearing an impressive ten million streams on Spotify alone. The song's enduring appeal is further evidenced by its frequent requests at weddings, where couples seek to incorporate its heartfelt lyrics into their special celebrations.
Global Recognition and Lasting Impact
Riya's musical journey has taken her to stages across the world, from Russia and Australia to Japan and Brazil, performing both as a vocalist and DJ at major drum and bass festivals. Her success is quantified not only by international performances but also by staggering streaming statistics. Recently checking her Spotify analytics, Riya discovered her entire catalogue has amassed over 40 million streams—a milestone that feels both "wild and surreal" for the artist from Pelsall.
"It's one of the ones that continues to put me on the map because Hybrid Minds continues to get bigger," Riya notes regarding 'Kismet', acknowledging the track's role in sustaining her career. Fans frequently request handwritten lyrics of the song, underscoring its personal significance to listeners worldwide.
Looking Forward: New Releases and Continued Inspiration
As 'Kismet' maintains its popularity, Riya continues to create new music, with her latest single 'Love'—a collaboration with Level 2—scheduled for release on February 14. Available on Beatport and digital streaming platforms, this new work promises to further enrich her discography. Reflecting on her creative process, Riya observes that while some songs emerge fully formed in minutes, others may require weeks of gestation, illustrating the unpredictable nature of artistic inspiration.
From a spontaneous attic composition to a global wedding favourite, Riya's story exemplifies how passion, hard work, and a touch of serendipity can transform a simple idea into a cultural touchstone that transcends borders and generations.
