Remember the name Rita Ora. The 21-year-old Albanian singer, who staging-rapup.kinsta.cloud named one of 10 Artists to Watch, scored a deal with Roc Nation and is prepping her debut for release this summer with heavy-hitters including Drake, The-Dream, and Stargate.
During her recent trip to Los Angeles, Rap-Up TV caught up with the blonde bombshell for one of her first stateside interviews. She chatted about pursuing her dream at the age of six, growing up in the small town of Pristina, Kosovo, signing to Roc Nation, and getting guidance from her label boss Jay-Z.
“He’s very honest and he’s very genuine and helpful,” said Rita of Mr. Carter. “It’s a great voice to listen to. I couldn’t ask for anything better.”
The London resident, who co-starred in the video for Drake’s “Over,” also shared her dreams of collaborating with Gwen Stefani (“Do you know how much I love that woman?”) and getting feedback from another one of her superstar idols, Beyoncé.
“She’s helped me out a lot. I try to play things and get her opinion,” said Rita, who appears on DJ Fresh’s single “Hot Right Now.” “To have one of the inspirations in your face while you’re doing your first album is just like what.”