In celebration of Women's Day, we're thrilled to present this OOPTalks episode featuring the incredibly talented Riya Duggal, or as she’s known to her fans, Ri! A young, dynamic artist at the intersection of music, dance, and storytelling, Ri is a singer, songwriter, dancer, and a key member of the next gen girl pop group WiSH. With a passion for music that dates back to her earliest memories, she’s made a name for herself by blending her love for storytelling with her incredible vocal and musical talents. As part of this Women’s Day special edit, let’s dive into her inspiring journey and hear from this remarkable young woman how she embraces a slow-lifestyle in between her tours and busy practice schedules.
OOP: Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?
Ri: My name is Riya Duggal, but you can call me Ri! I’m an artist - a singer songwriter, dancer that's part of a girl group called WiSH! I've been writing songs and playing the guitar since I was 14. I do a lot more though- I’m a producer, voice over artist, a playback singer for movies, tv commercials and background scores as well. I've been singing for as long as I can remember, and storytelling through music has always felt like second nature to me.
OOP: What does a typical day in your life looks like?
Ri: There's no such thing as a typical day in my life! But I usually have a combination of rehearsals for shows, dance classes, songwriting sessions, gigs, marketing meetings and content or photo shoots. Every week is different, which keeps things exciting and creative!
OOP: What are some ways you slow down and unwind?
Ri: How I start and end my day is really important for me. I like starting my day slow rather than getting into work immediately. I never skip breakfast! It's also important for me to play a sport a few times a week. I’m currently OBSESSED with playing football. It helps me keep the child in me alive! Work is so fast paced, there's always a hundred things to do. But when I play something, it really aligns all my senses and gives me joy from within. And keeps me fit too! Reading before bedtime helps to slow me down as well.
OOP: How do you manage work - life balance being a young touring artist?
Ri: I think it's important to know when to say 'No'. I believe in working smart! A skill I’m still trying to learn is taking naps while on the road rather than getting distracted haha!
Also to carve out time for yourself during the week or to do things or see family and friends. Rest fuels creativity - so taking a step back often leads to better performances and ideas.
OOP: As a musician who travels often, how do you stay mindful about your environmental impact?
Ri: It’s quite the challenge in a fast paced lifestyle to be mindful about one’s choices.
I try carpooling as much as I can to work, carrying reusable water bottles from home. I’m always carrying multiple bags to cut single use plastics. I’ve lately been getting very excited about upcycling my old clothes. Repurposing old outfits into new styles is a fun creative challenge!
OOP: Any comment on homegrown fashion/ lifestyle brands, how you support them, and why do you think it's necessary for people to support them?
Ri: Homegrown brands are basically homegrown artists. I think it's important to support them because their choices are usually intentional and sustainable for the environment. I keep coming across local Instagram stores and websites that I love to buy from. They're also such unique pieces and a lot of the times handcrafted. And I definitely as a musician relate in the way that if homegrown artists are supported on their home ground, it paves the way for them to represent the country on an international level and also present the culture worldwide.
OOP: What are some key sustainable practices you incorporate into your daily routine and you suggest people can do too?
Ri: I enjoy and encourage thrifting! I also keep discovering amazing hand me downs from my mother that are in great condition. My friends and relatives keep sending me clothes from their travels (and otherwise) that don’t fit them anymore, I always get compliments wearing these pieces!
I recently had a friend who did a clothing swap which I think is such a cool idea. It’s also a great way to experiment with new styles without contributing to waste.
OOP: Touring can sometimes feel like a whirlwind. How do you carve out time for rest and self-care while on the road?
Ri: Make up for me is therapeutic, I make sure to take my time with it when I can. At the same time, post show taking off my makeup is such an amazing feeling! No matter how late it is, it’s important to get that night time skincare routine in. Drinking water and getting enough sleep are the absolute top priority though! At least 10 minutes of stretching before and after a show helps me warm up and feel energized.
OOP: What does being at your pace mean?
Ri: I think everyone has a timeline of when things are meant to happen in their lives. Social media makes this hard to, but we should stop comparing ourselves to each other. Because everything that has to happen for us will happen at our own pace.
OOP: Do you have any tips for someone looking to start a career in music?
Ri: Stay consistent, stay true to your sound, and never stop learning - every step is part of the journey!
Ri styles our Type II Denim Jacket 'Raw Indigo' (Available Online/ Click Here)
with our Balloon Cargo Pants 'Pink Camo' (Currently Sold Out).