Words by Rachel June

My ears were graced with the sound of Maya Richards, AKA Saasil on earth, an 18-year-old neo-soul artist from North West London, whom I discovered when visiting ELAM Music College in August 2024. Her latest release, ‘Free as a Bird’ was written at a time when she was struggling with anxiety. Saasil says that her spirituality is a key part of why she makes music. ‘Free as a Bird’ is a conversation between her and God, about how she was looking in the wrong places for validation. Saasil acknowledges that life is hard, but says there is beauty within the struggles, and that this song is about “giving it all away to God.”

Saasil “makes the music she needs to hear” – using music to heal herself and others who listen. Her vocals are crisp yet soft, dancing over melodies with serene ease. Saasil grew up with influences such as Raphael Saadiq and Nat King Cole, Queen and Kate Bush. Her music taste is self-described as “weird and eclectic”, taking “inspiration from everything and everyone around me”. Her top three influences are Cleo Sol, Lauryn Hill and Erykah Badu. 

“I let my heart be the vessel of my music” – Saasil

Writing and making music is fundamental to her mental health, she says that “the ability to heal through music is a gift and an honour”. Saasil also mentions the importance of having close friends and family around her, including her partner who is also her executive producer. 

She gives a special shout-out to the music college ELAM, which helped her grow and develop – saying it was one of her lifes most challenging yet rewarding times. Candidly, she expresses how she struggled with depression and anxiety when she started, and the support and love of ELAM had a huge impact on her music journey. “You come out knowing who you are.” Balancing working, studying and creating music has been difficult, but her passion for what she loves has made the vision come to life – she mentions that “passion is what drives it for me”. 

For aspiring musicians, Saasil says to “let your music be the centre of it all, let it be the beacon.” Advising to speak her truth during the writing process and let your music find its audience. Saasil has plans to continue writing and making music and is excited for a “crazy, messy and amazing year.”