Kira Rizavi is a New York City based singer-songwriter who merges Dark Pop with a unique blend of her dad’s American Heartland upbringing with her mom’s rich Pakistani heritage. Her beat-driven songs feature soaring, acrobatic vocals alongside sounds inspired by Pakistan and the Middle East. Taking inspiration from artists like Faouzia and Ariana Grande, she writes from a confident inner voice offering inspiring anthems to encourage women to feel powerful and confident in their own skin.
With her single and music video, “Seventeen,” out now, we took some time to hear from Kira Rizavi. Read below to learn more about Kira Rizavi, the story behind “Seventeen,” and what’s to come.
Hi Kira Rizavi! Let’s start with how did you get your artist name?
I’ve always been super connected to my mom’s culture—she’s Pakistani—and while my dad’s American heritage is a big part of me too, I’ve always felt this strong pull towards the Eastern side of my identity. Whether it’s the language or the way that the people dress, I’ve taken a lot of inspiration from that. So, when I thought about an artist name, it just made sense to use my mom’s last name. The women in my family are super strong, and there’s a real sense of matriarchy, so it felt powerful and right to represent that.
What city are you from and where are you based now?
Born and raised in New York City—and still here!
At what point in your life did you decide to pursue a career in music? How did you get started?
People have always told me that I could sing, ever since I was a kid. Even though I was doing a million other things—sports like lacrosse and soccer, theater, all of it—I always had this insane drive toward music and performing. I think that I just kept gravitating back to it, whether I realized it or not. During quarantine, I finally put out my first song. I didn’t totally know what I was doing, but I knew it made me happy, and I was like, ‘yeah, this is what I want to do.’
Has your upbringing played a role in shaping who you are and defining your sound today? If so, how?
Definitely. My work ethic comes from my upbringing, 100%. I’m super curious and always exploring, which comes from my mom’s side. I grew up watching music videos constantly—artists like Christina Aguilera, Becky G, Charli XCX—just watching how they moved and expressed themselves so authentically. That really shaped how I see this journey, and I’ve never felt like I needed to follow a ‘normal’ path. I’m okay carving my own.
How would you describe your sound to readers who may not be familiar with you?
I’d say it’s soulful, for sure. Even though I’m only twenty-three, I feel like my voice sounds like I’ve lived a lot—because I’ve admired so many iconic performers. Sonically, it’s like a mix between Paramore, Christina Aguiler, and Faouzia, with a little bit of raw emotion thrown in. It’s got energy, but it’s also heartfelt.
Do you have any hobbies outside of music? What do you do to stay creative?
Yeah—dance and acting are big ones for me. I love driving, traveling, and just staying open to new experiences. I try not to shut myself off. And, honestly, learning to love myself has been a huge part of staying creative too.
Who are some of your main musical influences?
Nessa Barrett, Isabel LaRosa, Mariah the Scientist, Zara Larsson, and Sia. They’re all so different, but they inspire me in big ways.
Who would be a dream to collaborate with?
Collaborating with Chaka Khan would be an absolute dream!
What are some of your future music career goals?
I want to keep performing and definitely drop a couple of EPs. But, the ‘big’ dream? Playing Madison Square Garden in my hometown. I’ve performed there a few times, but I’d love to headline my own show at that iconic venue!
What’s one of the proudest moments of your music career so far?
Honestly, just not giving up. No matter what’s going on in my life, I always show up for my music. It’s what grounds me and keeps me going. Writing lyrics helps me make sense of everything—intuition and creativity just kind of come together. I feel like I’ve written a song for every emotion, every moment.
What would you say are the greatest lessons that you’ve learned so far?
Stay positive. Keep a solid team around you. Set boundaries and don’t be afraid to say no when something doesn’t feel right. I’ve also learned how important it is to stand up for myself, especially in an industry—and world—that can be sexist. Sometimes people label that as being ‘difficult,’ but really, it’s just me protecting myself. And, every woman deserves that.
Now onto your release, ‘Seventeen.’ What inspired this song?
I wrote ‘Seventeen’ when I actually ‘was’ seventeen, just starting out with music. It’s about the freedom and ease of that time in life—being right on the edge of adulthood, still able to make mistakes and learn without all the pressure. It’s about capturing that feeling of trial and error, and all the growth that comes with it.
What is ‘Seventeen’ about?
It’s really about that in-between stage—still a kid, but starting to grow up. It’s playful and nostalgic, and just reflects how I was seeing the world at that age.
How did the music video for ‘Seventeen’ come about? What was your vision for the video?
I wanted it to feel personal and real, so I shot parts of it in my childhood bedroom and included actual footage of me and my friends from back then. The whole vibe was about celebrating that carefree energy—just having fun and letting that joy come through.
What message do you hope fans take away from your music and from ‘Seventeen?’
Be kind to yourself. Be unapologetic. Have fun in your youth—it goes by so fast. And, even as you grow older, hold on to that free spirit and take care of your inner child.
What’s next for you? Are you working on any upcoming projects, or do you have any upcoming shows that we should be on the lookout for?
Yes! My next show is April 24th at The Delancey at 7 PM—come through! I’m also working on my debut EP. I’m still in the writing and production phase, collaborating with different people, and really exploring how to incorporate more Middle Eastern sounds to reflect my Pakistani roots.
Where can we follow you on social media?
instagram at @kirarizavi https://www.instagram.com/kirarizavi/
Tiktok at @thekirarizavi https://www.tiktok.com/@thekirarizavi
Website: www.kirarizavi.com
Thank you for the great interview; wish you much continued success!
