In episode #126 of The XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar catches up with Franco-British pianist and composer RIOPY to discuss his new album, THRIVE.

RIOPY came to music in an extraordinary and unusual way. Escaping to the UK following a childhood spent in an oppressive French cult, his fortunes changed when he was given an opportunity to study at Oxford Brookes University and then gifted a Steinway piano by Coldplay's Chris Martin, who recognised his need and potential. He has since channelled his troubled past – which included drug and alcohol abuse brought on by depression and anxiety – into his music, which now serves as a source of solace to millions around the world.

RIOPY's preceding trilogy of albums, RIOPY (2018), Tree of Light (2019) and Bliss (2021), have accumulated 600 million streams worldwide and achieved significant chart success, with more than 120 weeks for Tree of Light on the US's Billboard classical chart.

Lana Del Rey recently announced that she has adapted one of RIOPY's compositions. His meditative piano playing and melody will feature on a track on the American singer-songwriter's new album, Did you know that there's a tunnel under Ocean Blvd? When announcing the new album, the singer thanked RIOPY "for lending me your subtle piano compositions that are infused with melodies I only wish I could dream up". Details will be confirmed at a later date.

THRIVE marks the beginning of a new chapter for RIOPY. It will be the first of his albums to include strings alongside his evocative and powerful pianism, which has earned him an ever-increasing international following.

In this interview, RIOPY talks about writing and recording the album, Lana Del Rey using his music on her new album, live shows, meditation and lots more. Check out the article on XS Noize - https://bityl.co/IBN3

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