Ria Ritchie released videos of her covering other artists songs with the guitar, receiving over 11 million views on YouTube.[2] In December 2009, Ria began writing songs with Plan B, then in 2010, she created a studio partnership with songwriter Ruth-Anne Cunningham, who co-wrote Pixie Lott's debut album Turn It Up.[1]
In 2010, Ria began talks with the discoverer of Rihanna and Ne-Yo, Jay Brown – business partner to rapper and entrepreneur Jay-Z.[1] Ria was signed in 2011 by Takeover Entertainment who signed a contract with Jay-Z's entertainment company, Roc Nation.[1]
In May 2012, Ria Ritchie released her first single, "Only One", and an extended play in 2012, with a debut album released in February 2013.[2]