It’s hard to ignore the bustling crowd that gathered around Rio Rainz. In a defining moment of the Next Wave Live showcase, Rio was joined by Finn Foxell for an exclusive performance of ‘Sunshine’. Born to Irish and Jamaican parents, Rio spent much of his time growing up between the city and the countryside, a duality that resonates strongly across his music. Located within the UK’s growing alternative DIY scene, the Londoner carries himself with authenticity and charisma, which comes through in introspective verses backed by polished, upbeat production. Rio traverses jazz, R&B and electronic textures on his forthcoming 6-track EP ‘Cobwebs In My Room’.

He shares: “I think my favourite thing about a live performance is you’re able to showcase your experiences - what you put into songs.” Of his process, he says: “I like to be in my four walls; in the studio, creating and orchestrating sounds. I never initiate performing in front of a load of people…it’s quite a new thing to me but I like it because it puts people on to discover me.”