In a remarkable resurgence, Freya Ridings has shed the shadows of self-doubt that once threatened to derail her career. The singer-songwriter, celebrated for her haunting ballad “Lost Without You,” faced a tumultuous journey marked by anxiety and pressure. Yet, with the courage to reclaim her voice and autonomy, Ridings is poised to unveil her new album, *Mother of Pearl*, on 29 May. In a candid interview, she reflects on the challenges that shaped her artistry and the pivotal moment that reignited her passion for music.
A Battle for Authenticity
Ridings’ foray into the music industry began on a high note, with her debut album earning a Brit Award nomination in 2017. Yet, the glitz and glamour of fame swiftly gave way to an overwhelming crisis of confidence as she embarked on the follow-up project, *Blood Orange*. “I was questioning and doubting myself more than I ever had,” Ridings recalls. Recording sessions became a battleground for her mental health, exacerbated by panic attacks and the relentless pressure to conform to industry expectations.
The singer was thrust into high-pressure environments, collaborating with renowned producers in studios that felt overwhelmingly “masculine-dominated.” This atmosphere stifled her creativity, leaving her feeling vulnerable and unsupported. “I hated it,” Ridings admits, reflecting on a process that ultimately felt alien to her artistic identity. “It kind of broke my spirit.”
Breaking Free
The situation escalated when her record label downsized during the pandemic, leaving Ridings without the support system that had nurtured her early success. Her relationship with her manager further deteriorated, leading her to describe the environment as “toxic.” “I felt petrified because other people were petrified for me,” she explains. This fear eroded her confidence, pushing her to second-guess her instincts as a musician.
However, a transformative moment came when Ridings made the bold decision to travel to Los Angeles to collaborate with US producer Jen Decilveo. “I paid for my own ticket and I got on the plane anyway,” she laughs, recalling the thrill of defiance. This leap of faith marked a turning point, igniting a new sense of freedom and determination. “It was like I was possessed. I knew I had to get on that plane.”
Reclaiming Her Voice
Spending a year in Los Angeles proved to be a cathartic experience for Ridings. Fueled by newfound motivation, she poured her heart into writing, crafting songs that expressed her journey from despair to empowerment. The standout track “Euphoria” emerged from this period, encapsulating her fight against self-doubt and the quest for self-acceptance. “I was stuck and trapped, but I was like, ‘Who would I want to be right now?'” Ridings reflects, drawing inspiration from her Celtic heritage.
The themes of resilience and rebellion resonate throughout her new album. Tracks like “Wild Horse” and “Strength In Me” showcase her resolve to overcome obstacles and reclaim her narrative. “A lot of these songs were rebellions. I used them to rebuild myself, piece by piece,” she asserts.
A New Chapter
Returning to her roots, Ridings refined her new material through intimate performances across Los Angeles, engaging with fans and incorporating their feedback into her songwriting process. This grassroots approach has allowed her to maintain authenticity while exploring themes of love and personal history. The album features poignant songs inspired by her family, including the heartwarming tale of her parents’ meeting in 1983 Coventry.
As the sessions for *Mother of Pearl* progressed, Ridings’ panic attacks dissipated. She carefully selected producers who aligned with her vision, creating a collaborative atmosphere that felt like working with friends. No longer burdened by the weight of past expectations, she embraced her artistic freedom, leading to a revitalised sound that has already garnered enthusiasm during her recent Australian tour.
Why it Matters
Freya Ridings’ journey underscores a crucial narrative within the music industry: the importance of authenticity and self-empowerment. Her story resonates with countless artists navigating the pressures of commercial success and the struggle to remain true to their creative selves. By reclaiming her voice and rejecting the confines of a toxic environment, Ridings not only redefines her artistry but also inspires others to do the same. As she prepares to share *Mother of Pearl* with the world, her story serves as a reminder that resilience and self-belief are essential in the quest for artistic integrity.
