How Riah Explored Feeling Trapped by Her Inner Thoughts in New Single, ‘Bed’
Feeling trapped in our own heads is a sensation we know all too well, and it's a subject beautifully brought to life in independent dream-pop artist Riah's new single, "Bed."
The insightful track serves as an exploration of Riah's own mental health, beginning with an almost lullaby-like acoustic sound before progressing into an upbeat bop. The sound contrasts the trapped feeling of being stuck in an anxious cycle, wanting to do everything but not even being able to get out of bed. Ahead of Riah's next big show, opening for Annika Bennett on May 21 at the Resident in L.A., we got the chance to speak with her to learn all about the new track and what inspired her to write such a personal piece.
The Story Behind 'Bed'
Riah: "Bed" is really a song about my thoughts taking over. I have struggled with anxiety for most of my life, and "Bed" is about the tension of that. Some days there are so many things I wish I could do if only I didn't have this weight on my chest and some days I can't even explain all of the thoughts and feelings in my own head. The verses are really expressing the chaotic train of thought that comes with a mind being constantly in a million places at once, remembering really specific things but forgetting tons of little things—your mind being pulled in so many different directions that you feel stuck.
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What 'Bed' Means
Riah: Every song I've released so far feels personal to me and something I've been through—a moment, a feeling, a situation, a relationship. I think this song is a different level of vulnerability because it's about an internal world and being frustrated by a paralyzing cycle of thoughts and anxieties.
(Photo credit: Abagail Reid)
Riah's Favorite Lyric
Riah: I love the second verse. "I have this vivid memory back when we were young. You played this song you wrote for me. I can't remember anything, the lyrics or the melody. What did it mean?" I think it's funny how a memory can be both so vivid and the details can be so completely forgettable as time goes on.
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What's Next
Riah: There are so many songs in the works along with a show with the incredible Annika Bennet in L.A.. We're just getting started.
Final Thoughts
Riah: I hope that it makes someone feel a little less alone.
For more insights into our favorite new music straight from the artist, click HERE to read our interview with Delilah Montagu on her new single, "Orange."