Aotearoa's RIIKI REID has dropped 'Over Romantic', a shimmering track that feels like bottled sunshine, perfectly timed for those long, lazy summer days. This new single, her first offering since the well-received 'Skin' EP, signals the start of a fresh project and captures the very essence of a fleeting summer romance.
Collaborating with a talented team including Robby De Sa, Phoebe Sinclair, and Liam Quinn, RIIKI has crafted a soundscape that's both dreamy and vibrant. The song's core narrative revolves around that initial spark of connection during the summer months, but it's equally about the almost magical way we romanticise the season itself. As RIIKI explains, “Over Romantic’ follows this story of meeting someone for the first time in the summer, but really, it's just about romanticizing the summer. I would love this song to feel like that for people, because that's how it feels for me.”
The track is awash with sun-kissed melodies, underpinned by shimmering guitar chords and a steady drum beat. RIIKI's vocals float effortlessly, painting a picture of infatuation and enchantment. The infectious hook, with its lyrics "sun drunk, in love, kiss me like you do, tell me that I’m pretty and I might not sober up," perfectly encapsulates the heady rush of a summer fling.
RIIKI hopes 'Over Romantic' will become a cherished summer memory for listeners. “I want this song to be the memento you take away from your summer,” she reflects. “I always end up having a song every summer, where I’m like, that song was the song that reminds me of summer 2017’.”
Having garnered praise from publications like Rolling Stone Australia/New Zealand and Milky, RIIKI REID is no stranger to critical acclaim. Her previous EPs, 'Newer Oxygen', 'Crash & Collide', and 'Skin', showcased her versatility, moving seamlessly between dream-pop, guitar-driven rock, and dance-infused tracks.
With 2025 on the horizon, RIIKI is poised to unveil a more refined and confident sound. Her recent years have been packed with activity, including headline shows, supporting major artists like Lorde and Budjerah, and performing alongside Fly My Pretties. She's also featured in campaigns for Maybelline and graced the stages of festivals like Jim Beam Homegrown and Sound Splash.
Beyond her musical talents, RIIKI's background in performing arts and choreography, including her experience as a dance teacher and actor, adds another dimension to her artistry. This multifaceted approach allows her to craft a compelling and cohesive vision, solidifying her position as a rising star with the potential to define a generation.
