Today we’d like to introduce you to Riley Hughes.
Hi Riley, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
The Riley J Band is a RnB/Soul band based in Boulder, Colorado, led by the soulful vocal performer, Riley J. With a sound rooted in groove, the band draws inspiration from artists like Amy Winehouse, H.E.R, Olivia Dean, Leon Thomas, Hiatus Coyote, Moonchild, and Erykah Badu.
Formed in 2023, the Riley J Band quickly built momentum in the local live scene— patio shows at Trident Café, performances at the Boulder Roots Music Fest/FOCOMX/iAM Music Fest, an appearance at Fox Theatre in 2025 and 2026, and the Boulder Theater in 2026 for the Boulder International Film Festival. Their published original music like, Bold, Not in Business, and Time Trip, can be found on all streaming platforms.
Riley grew up within groups like choir, band, musical theatre, a cappella, show choir, and even a co-started a production label in high school where she produced a fully student run and produced album.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
this is the first band I have ever been in or started! Every level that I have achieved has been uncertain. But this is where mentors like Matt Cottle and Ian Steele (Eastlin) from Roots Music Project, or the open mic at Vision Quest, or other local female artists like Kaitlin Williams, Anna Cutler, and Olivia Roumel come into play. Every question or struggle while running my band has been shared with a combination of these mentors from my life.
I remember a show that was quite humbling and character building. I had started to lose my voice from over talking in a loud space before a show my band was playing at. I had to really rely on my band to fill space and time because I couldn’t sing even half of how I wanted to show up. I learned how to maintain composure and performance quality while going through anxiety and how to rely on band to show up for me.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I am a registered LLC owner for my band, Riley J Band, and I also have my P.E. (Professional Engineering) license with the State of Colorado in Geotechnical/Civil Engineering. I like to say I have two careers that I am working at the same time. I have always been a hustler and this is no different. I like stretching myself and I am so passionate about music that I can’t imagine my life without it. As for engineering, I went to school at University of Wisconsin-Madison for a Geological Engineering Degree that I graduated with in 2022. I work for a civil engineering & surveying firm in the renewable energy industry. I love my job because of my passion for environmental sustainabiltiy and my passion for traveling. I travel to wind and solar farms across the United States!
What are your plans for the future?
I plan to continue working towards both of my careers (engineering and music), until my goals change or as opportunities arise. I plan to contuse to live my life boldly and put my energy and dedication toward projects I am proud to be a part of. My next goal is to open for a touring artist at a venue in Denver! I am also going to be releasing some singles this year!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.rileyjmusic.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rileyjband/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Riley-J-Band/61566638243207/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rileyjband
