Meet Mariah Burge (Riah B): R & B Singer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mariah Burge (Riah B) and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mariah, why did you pursue a creative career?
I chose an artistic career because music allows me to be in touch with my true self, my life and reality. Its a place that I can enter and be whoever I desire. I find confidence and joy when I create. My feelings and emotions can be released to encourage, inspire, or entertain. The ability to be able to reach other people and potentially inspire someone through a God-given talent is the greatest of them all. Music completes me and without being able to release my art I wouldn’t be Riah. I wouldn’t choose any other career to follow

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a artist I want to be authentic and as real as possible. I want young women to relate when they hear or see me. I am a regular shy girl with an intriguing sense of humor, a truly compassionate person who often loves deeply. I have a soft yet sensual voice and I always attempt to create a vibe that feels beautiful and free. I want the listener to relate and get lost in their feelings. I released an EP which was entitled “Where I Stand” which is symbolic of who I am and where I stand as artist and women. This is me and this is what I want to tell the world. I am a true dreamer and believer in manifestation. This year I moved away from my hometown by myself to chase purpose and a dream only I could see. I didn’t have much of anything but I knew I would overcome everything. I want people to see that you can do whatever your heart desires and not to hold back just take the risk. I knew in order for me to reach my full potential I would have to separate myself from all distractions, So I did just that by moving to Atlanta. I forced myself to become uncomfortable to learn and continue to grow. I gained more confidence and it is reflected in my creations.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
So I am new to Atlanta but I love searching for new restaurants to try. Mostly soul food…. In my spare time I visit Piedmont Park or little five points for some chill vibes.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to thank my family for molding and believing in me at a young age. I grew up singing in church and I would often create music of my own and perform it in front of my family and those moments I will forever cherish. As a little girl with a tiny voice they never shut down my creativity. As I grew up as a teenager I began to lack confidence in my creative side my cousin Ziyon began working with me on my vocals. He became one of my music mentors. Later I began recording with my producer Jameel Miller(jahgotthejuice) who engineered and released some of my all time favorites, Then while working on my first EP I was introduced to William Hurt(Matlock) another producer I worked with who influenced a lot of my work as well. I would also like to Thank my vocal coach Miki Saito for pushing me to not be comfortable,learn how to use my gift and challenge myself more. These are just a few people I thank and I am grateful to have worked with,

Instagram: Riahbmusic

Youtube: RIAHB MUSIC