Alt-indie pop artist RIZ LA VIE has announced his highly anticipated debut album, Haven, will arrive on February 9th, the same day he kicks off The World Could Be A Haven Tour in Phoenix, AZ. Along with the announcement, LA VIE shared the single “FYP”, a rock-tinged ode to New York City, where he lived before moving to Los Angeles during the pandemic.
Combining elements of hip-hop, pop, R&B, and rock, RIZ LA VIE has amassed fans with his soulful, raspy voice, deeply introspective lyrics, and catchy hooks. He achieved viral status with his song “Napkins”, which showcased his unique hybrid of singing and rapping. The track has clocked over 38 million streams on Spotify. Now, RIZ LA VIE is set to deliver his first full-length album as he prepares to embark on an extensive North American tour.
Haven was inspired by RIZ LA VIE’s search for a sense of belonging after first moving from New Jersey, where he grew up, to NYC during a recession, and then to L.A. during the pandemic:
“The album reflects my journey facing the struggles of trying to find a home in a city like New York, during a recession,” he explained, “and eventually having to move to another city like Los Angeles. It showcases the ups and downs of forming new connections, and the impact of losing some friends temporarily and some permanently, both for the better and for the worse.”
Haven includes contributions from Vic Wainstein (Tyler the Creator, Mac Miller), Daniel Hartzog (Tom the Mailman, ericdoa), Lucy Blomkamp (6LACK, Mallrat), and Johan Lenox (BROCKHAMPTON, Metro Boomin, Shawn Mendes). It was mixed by KES (Ed Sheeran, Jacob Banks) and mastered by Mike Bozzi (Kendrick Lamar, Steve Lacy).
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In keeping with LA VIE’s previous releases, the 15-track offering conveys spiritual strength and optimism. “The album also expresses my determination to not fall victim to fear-mongering, and trying to find light and positivity in difficult times,” he added.
“FYP”, the first official single from RIZ LA VIE’s debut album, finds the singer longing for home as he tries to establish himself in a foreign place. “[The song] is a representation of my love affair with New York City, even while living in Los Angeles,” said LA VIE. “It reflects my feelings of longing, FOMO, and passion as I see my beloved city moving on without me, such as through concerts and billboards, while LA tries to capture my attention. It’s a story of my longing for my true home and my deep emotional connection to it.”
RIZ LA VIE – “FYP”
Also set to appear on the album are previously released singles “Go Again”, “No Doubt”, and “Nitelite”.
RIZ LA VIE – “Go Again”
RIZ LA VIE – “No Doubt”
To celebrate the release of Haven, RIZ LA VIE will hit the road for a lengthy North American tour, with dates in most major markets—NYC and L.A. included. Johan Lenox and Ayleen Valentine will provide support on select dates. Tickets are on sale now. View a full list of tour dates below, and for more information and to purchase tickets, visit RIZ LA VIE’s website.
“FYP” is now available on all streaming platforms. Listen via YouTube in the player below. Pre-save Haven here.
