SHE GREW up listening to The Dixie Chicks, Garth Brooks, and Randy Travis and today is gaining public and critical notice for her own country and roots songs. She is County Galway singer-songwriter Riah.
The 25-year-old Mariah Butler (aka Riah ), from Headford, first came to attention in 2014 when she reached the quarter-finals of Voice Of Ireland, an experience which encouraged her to pursue a career in music. She re-located to country music capital Nashville, and there won the Grand Champion title at the 2014 American Country Star.
Last year, she released her debut EP, On Sundays, which debuted at No.1 on the iTunes Irish Country Album chart. It's six tracks showcased Riah's soaring vocal skills and modern take on country music. She currently has a new album in the works.
Riah plays Monroe’s Backstage Bar on Saturday August 19 at 9pm. Tickets are €10 from www.monroes.ie and www.ticketmaster.ie
