RIO Releases ‘Awake’ Ahead Of Album Release

The Manchester music scene has been a constant source of groundbreaking stars in UK Rap over recent years and when it comes to the genre, RIO is a name that must be mentioned. With over 10 years of experience and expertise, plus a strong catalogue of music, achievements, and accolades, the lyrical master ensures the world is going to be ‘Awake’ to his talents with the second single from his forthcoming album, due for release at the end of November.

Hailing from Manchester’s Moss Side, RIO broke through on a national level and has proved a regular across platforms including BBC Radio 1Xtra, Radio 1, Soccer AM and Capital Xtra with support from DJ Target, Semtex, Tim Westwood, Mistajam, Ras Kwame, Mary Anne Hobbs and Annie Nightingale. Earning accolades such as ‘The Best Grime Mixtape’ at The Mixtape Awards, collaborating with the likes of Ghetts, Blizzard and C4, and clocking up hundreds of thousands of YouTube views on his own channel across music videos, freestyles and audio drops, the talented emcee has created a respected profile.

Taking a hiatus from music to focus on his own personal growth, RIO now steps back in to his passion with renewed energy, perspective and maturity. Recently releasing the introspective ‘Ghost’, RIO divulges his reasons for taking a step back from music as he reflects on his journey and truthfully unpicks mistakes, frustrations and the strength he had to muster to rise again. A striking introduction to his artist rebirth, ‘Ghost’ sets the tone for new single and having laid his past to rest, ‘Awake’ is the snap of vibrancy, hunger and determination that has always been central to the determined emcees craft.

Featuring production from JSD, the instrumental has a grime foundation with aspects of drill bubbling through on the gliding 808, and the sharp melodic synth and distorted vocals giving an edgy EDM touch to the bouncing number. The second single from RIO’s upcoming 10-track album ‘The Good, The Bad & The Ugly’, ‘Awake’ feels proud, strong and ready as RIO delivers a statement come back piece.

Set to take us on a lyrical journey through experience, growth, pain and strength, ‘The Good, The Bad & The Ugly’ is set to be an honest account that touches the depths of emotion and delivers an uncompromised musical collection to keep fans gripped to its message.