The Music of Mary J. Blige

Riya is a versatile singer of Palauan and Dominican decent, who began singing in Hawaii, competing  in the high school singing competition "Brown Bags to Stardom." Since then, she has competed in  numerous contests including Hawaii Stars in 2000 and 2001; and, MTV's "Say What Karaoke." As a  background vocalist, Riya has supported Kenny Loggins, Michael McDonald, Natalie Cole, Ruben  Studdard, Bobby Caldwell, Sheila E., Ray Parker Jr, Denice Williams, Mary J. Blige and many more. Riya is also no stranger to the theatrical stage as well, as an actress she received a Po'okela Award-nomination for her role in "Beehive" at the Manoa Valley Theatre in 2003. In 2006, Riya recorded “I Give My Heart to You”, a song written by her father that was dedicated to the men & women serving in the armed forces.  They partnered with Jeep/Chrysler's "Operation Gratitude" to send 7000 copies to the troops serving in  Iraq and Afghanistan. She also continues to be a featured artist with the 25th Tropic Lighting Band for  concerts and special events. In the recording studio Riya has contributed to recordings by The Green,  Nomad, Mahkess, Mike Love and Paula Fuga to name a few, and has sung lead vocals on The Jay.Keyz Project's debut album “The Golden Age.” In 2016, Riya held a 3-month residency at Blue Note Hawaii as one of the leads in the Gospel Brunch, in addition to Tribute performances to Jill Scott, Natalie Cole, Stevie Wonder, Billie Holiday and Nina Simone at the same venue. Riya is currently the lead singer in the  local bands “The Jay.Keyz Project” and “Adagio” as well as the full-time jazz-singer on the Star of  Honolulu. In 2019, Riya partnered with Honolulu based record label “Soul Kid Records” and has begun  to record original songs for her album. A private vocal instructor, a saxophonist, a vocalist and a mother, Riya has touched hearts all over the world from New York to Palau.