From Injury Reserve to solo act, RiTchie’s musical evolution

HYFIN Verified artist Nathaniel Ritchie, better known as RiTchie or Ritchie with a T, is forging a new path as a solo artist with his debut album “Triple Digits [112].” The Arizona-based rapper first gained recognition as a member of the experimental hip-hop group Injury Reserve, which he formed in 2012 with Stepa J. Groggs and producer Parker Corey. After the tragic passing of Groggs in 2020 and the release of Injury Reserve’s final album, RiTchie embarked on a solo career, seeking to create more lighthearted and fun music while maintaining his lyrical prowess.

In a recent interview with HYFIN, RiTchie opened up about the creative process behind “Triple Digits [112]” and his evolution as an artist. The album, recorded during Phoenix’s sweltering summer heat, became a reflection of RiTchie’s environment and a vehicle for personal expression.

The extreme temperatures in Phoenix significantly shaped the album’s concept. RiTchie recounted, “I made a song titled “Triple Digits[112]” about people still trying to have nightlives in the peak of a Phoenix summer. When I made that song, I was still searching for a direction for the record.” This moment of inspiration led to the album’s overarching theme and title.

RiTchie’s approach to his solo work differs from his group projects, allowing him more freedom to explore his style. “I wanted to have zero expectations of having conversion or trying to get as many fans as possible from the IR and the By Storm umbrella,” he said. “I wanted to really build something on my own because I think that not only does that come off ingenuine or entitled, but at the same time, it’s like at the end of the day, I do want this to be able to run along the group stuff.”

The transition from group member to a solo artist has allowed RiTchie to present a more personal side of himself to his audience. He described his solo work as “a window into me and a little bit more of a day-to-day look.” This vulnerability extends to his music videos, progressively bringing viewers closer to his perspective.

Reflecting on his musical influences, RiTchie cited various artists who have shaped his sound and approach to hip-hop. When asked about his “Mount Rushmore” of rap, he named Kanye West, Yasiin Bey (formerly Mos Def), André 3000, and Young Thug. He also acknowledged the potential for newer artists like Billy Woods to join that pantheon, demonstrating his appreciation for established and emerging talents in the genre.

Throughout the interview, RiTchie emphasized the importance of work-life balance and maintaining his mental health as an artist. “Having this really good balance, like quote unquote work-life balance, whatever you wanna call it, you know, I’ve always, I’ve never been one of the people that make music every single day, 365 days a year,” he shared. “I need to take these steps back and really soak things in right? In my life and even what’s going on everywhere else.”

As RiTchie continues to carve out his identity as a solo artist, “Triple Digits [112]” is a testament to his growth and willingness to push creative boundaries. With his unique blend of introspection, humor, and sharp lyricism, RiTchie is poised to impact the hip-hop landscape as a solo act and in his ongoing collaborative projects.

*This interview has been edited for length and clarity,