Today we’d like to introduce you to Rita Bliss.
Hi Rita, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I grew up around a lot of music, and started playing guitar as a kid. I think I wrote my first song in 3rd or 4th grade. Music has just always been a part of my life, and I’ve picked up different instruments along the way, including and especially and most importantly, the banjo. In the last few years, I have been playing solo gigs, and releasing original songs. I moved to Austin in 2019, and have been gigging around town, and also had a chance to do a few shows in London. It’s been so much fun!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has certainly been a very long road. I didn’t realize that I wanted to pursue a solo music career until 2023. Before that, I had been in many bands as a hobby, but I started to take it a little more seriously just recently. Figuring out how to prioritize music alongside all the other requirements of life has been a challenge. I try to periodically take stock of whether or not my time and energy is going toward creating the life that I want.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a songwriter and performer. I strive to tell the truth in my songs, and be authentic and straightforward in my lyrics. I’ve been told that my music is timeless, and my rootsy style could be considered folk, Americana, or bluegrass. Releasing 16 songs over the last 2 years feels like a big accomplishment. I bring lived experience and queer perspective as a traveler and collector of stories.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
The music scene in Austin is unparalleled. There is room for everyone and every style of music. There are plenty of places to play around town, and it’s easy to catch a show in any genre. The I-35 expansion has been rough, and I could certainly do without that.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ritabliss.com/home
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ritablissbanjo/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@RitaBlissBanjo
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6YIZQKdkW5uuoIkLt3ZiJu?si=RaTe9I0tT8-62KtHvKHUsw
