Getting to know London-based artist and producer Royce Rider
Based in East London, Georgian singer, songwriter and producer Royce Rider is the kind of artist you stumble upon and instantly wonder why more people don’t know his name. A true hidden gem, he crafts songs that carry a moody, cinematic quality—somewhere between the dreamy darkness of Lana Del Rey and the raw storytelling of Ethel Cain.
He seamlessly blends pop, indie, rock, and some hints of classical sounds in a way that doesn’t fit neatly into one genre, giving his music a fresh but familiar atmosphere.
DNü: What was your ‘wait, I might actually be good at this’ moment?
RR: I’m always caught between two fires to be completely honest – there’ll be days when I think I’m divinely ordained to make the art that I do and other days where I’m wondering why I’m doing this or who I’m even doing it for. I guess it just depends on whatever song I’m writing at the time and if I think it’s ass or not.
DNü: How would you describe your music to a stranger?
RR: I always have trouble with this question – the sonic soundscape is often dark and cinematic but the lyrics are always very playful. I like the contradiction.
DNü: What’s something people assume about you as an artist that’s totally wrong?
RR: People often assume I have a lot of support when it comes to my art but I don’t come from a musical family or background at all. I had to teach myself how to write and produce because I didn’t personally know anyone who could help me with bringing my ideas to life, and I’ve never worked with another musician to this day.
DNü: You’re invited to a fancy dinner party, but you can only invite either Lana del Rey or Charli xcx, who are you inviting and why?
RR: If I can’t invite them both, I’m not going.
DNü: What’s your skincare routine?
RR: Good thoughts and spf.
Catch Royce Rider performing at our debut indoor festival this September. Tickets are on sale here.
