Rosanna Riverso

Hamilton’s very own Rosanna Riverso has exploded onto the
music scene as a highly acclaimed songstress that is determined to prevail. From an early age, Riverso began belting out her sweet voice in religious performances. Today, she is working hard on producing a new album, which she plans to release late this year. Th e modest singer-songwriter says she couldn’t have done it all without support from her family and friends.

CL: What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced in the music business?
RR: There’s a lot of competition, and a lot of talented people, and you will hear a lot of “no’s” before you hear the “yes.”

CL: How do you apply your business degree from Wilfred Laurier University to your singing?
RR: Everything you do is business. I’ve really been able to use the skills that I learned in university to help market myself.

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CL: Tell me about your new album that you’re working on.
RR: I use a more operatic technique to the singing. There will be other songs that will be a little softer, a little bit ethereal, and even new-age sounding. I am trying my best to fuse all of the music styles that I love … Italian, Latin, and a lot of Middle Eastern sounds and instruments.

CL: How did you feel when you first heard you were invited to perform on the Jimmy Kimmel Live Main Stage at the Feast of San Gennaro in Hollywood, CA?
RR: I had originally found out about the festival last year and contacted the organizers to find out what the requirements were to submit as an entertainer for the festival. At that time I had actually found out about it too late. I felt a little discouraged, but I made a note at that time of when they would be looking for submissions for the following year, and even though it didn’t sound promising as I was Canadian, I still applied. I’m glad I did.

CL: How do you feel now that you’re gaining a lot of media attention?
RR: Happy, honoured and humble. I’ve really learned to appreciate the moments and the now. I am just counting my blessings, and I thank God for everything that he’s given me.

CL: Of all your accomplishments, what would you say you are most proud of?
RR: A charity event that I founded last year called Harmony for Hope. I was inspired to create this charitable event, which raised $60,000 for the Juravinski Cancer Center in Hamilton. After seeing my mother struggle with this illness, and going with her for her chemotherapy treatments, I was determined to make a difference.
www.rosannariverso.com