Vulnerability Meets Artistry in Riah’s Latest Music Video, “Sertraline”

Mental health conversations are becoming increasingly important, and rising dark-pop artist Riah brings us a hauntingly beautiful exploration of inner struggles with her latest music video, “Sertraline.” As part of her sophomore album “Trauma Bond,” this track delves deep into the artist’s personal battle with OCD, using the metaphor of medication (Sertraline is a common medication for OCD and anxiety) to craft a powerful narrative about mental health.

The video’s production strikes a perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication. Set in a dimly lit space adorned with carefully placed candles, the atmosphere immediately draws viewers into an intimate world. Riah, who is also a competitive pole dancer (and winner of the 2023 PSO Mountain competition) incorporates her athletic artistry into the video, using the pole as both a physical and metaphorical representation of the struggles described in her lyrics.

“The devil on my shoulder he won’t leave, I try to drown him out in Sertraline...” Riah sings in the opening verses, her voice carrying both strength and vulnerability. The choreography perfectly complements these raw emotions, with movements that alternate between controlled power and vulnerable surrender.

What makes this particularly striking is its ability to tackle serious subject matter while maintaining artistic beauty. Having started her journey in the Los Angeles entertainment industry at 17 and later stepping away to reclaim her artistic autonomy, Riah brings a mature perspective to her craft. This experience shines through in every frame of the video, where sensuality meets introspection in a tasteful, powerful display.

“Sertraline” is part of a larger narrative within the “Trauma Bond” album, which includes deeply personal tracks like “Daddy Issues” and “Mommy Issues.” The video serves as a perfect example of Riah’s mission to show that women can be simultaneously sexy, vulnerable, and powerful – a message that resonates throughout her work.

The production quality is professional yet intentionally intimate, creating an atmosphere that feels both polished and authentic. The lighting design, in particular, deserves special mention, as it creates shadows and highlights that add depth to both the physical performance and the emotional narrative.

For those who’ve followed Riah’s journey from her early days of performing blues songs with her father’s band at age 5, to her appearance on America’s Most Talented Kids at 12, this video represents a powerful evolution. The little girl who once sang Jessica Rabbit songs at open mics has grown into an artist who fearlessly tackles complex themes while staying true to her artistic vision.

As we watch her perform, it’s clear that this is a statement about the complexity of human experience, the struggle with mental health, and the power of artistic expression as a form of healing. The video ends with a powerful reminder that even in our darkest moments, there’s a kind of beauty in the struggle. As Riah puts it in the lyrics, “Locked up in my own prison, battle scars and metal bars can’t keep me.” It’s a message of resilience that resonates long after the final frame.

What thoughts and emotions does this video stir in you? Have you ever found yourself connecting with art that speaks to your own struggles in such a raw, honest way? Perhaps that’s the true power of “Sertraline.” Keep an eye on this rising star – Riah’s just getting started.

Follow Riah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riahmusic