Talent: Rhea Raj. Photographer: Reinhardt Kenneth. Vinyl trench coat, RTA. Boots, Jennifer Le.
Rhea Raj steps into the spotlight with HUNTER, her bold debut album that captures the essence of self-discovery and unapologetic expression. Released on May 24th, HUNTER is more than music—it’s a statement of identity, shaped by her journey from Classical Indian dance to the stages of American Idol and the creative energy of Los Angeles. With its experimental sounds and duality of fierce confidence and vulnerability, HUNTER marks a transformative chapter for the rising artist. From electrifying visuals to rhythmic pop anthems, Rhea invites us into her world, where music and fashion intertwine to create a fearless narrative.
Gown, Diana Couture. Shoes, Giannico.
HBZVN: Can you tell us about the release of HUNTER?
RHEA RAJ: This year marks a transformative chapter in my life and music. On May 24th, I released my debut album, HUNTER—a milestone born from years of dedication, navigating uncertainty, and learning to trust my creative instincts. At its core, HUNTER is a declaration of self-love that defines my journey as an artist.
Gown, Diana Couture. Shoes, Giannico.
HBZVN: What influenced your musical journey, and how did it all begin?
RHEA RAJ: I grew up learning Classical Indian dance from my mom, who I credit for inspiring my instant connection to movement and music. My artistic journey later unfolded in Texas, where I competed on American Idol at 15 before heading to New York for college. Midway through my studies, I moved to LA to pursue my passion for songwriting and producing.
HBZVN: How would you describe HUNTER and what it represents for you?
RHEA RAJ: HUNTER is the culmination of the experimental sounds and persona I’ve developed over my 24 years. Despite its bold and assertive energy, HUNTER is rooted in duality and embracing every aspect of my identity. This record is a declaration of unapologetic expression. I’m learning that the fierce character I’ve built can coexist with vulnerability.
Jacket, Ronny Kobo. Sunglasses, Gentle Monster x Mugler @muglerofficial. Shoes: GCDS. Ear cuff, Vitaly.
HBZVN: What was your approach to the visuals for HUNTER and what role do they play in the album’s narrative?
RHEA RAJ: I wanted HUNTER’s visuals to reflect its sonic versatility. From “MESSY” to “HUSH” to “LIGHTS OUT,” I brought my dream worlds to life through conceptual music videos—my personal playground to explore different styles.
HBZVN: Fashion seems to be an important part of your expression. How does it connect to your music?
RHEA RAJ: Fashion has always been a central part of my expression; I love playing dress-up and curating looks that feel authentically me. The throughline is always pieces that make me feel sexy, glamorous, and bold. This year in particular, I’ve been drawn to croc textures, snakeskin, and tiger prints.
Jacket, Ronny Kobo. Sunglasses, Gentle Monster x Mugler @muglerofficial. Shoes: GCDS. Ear cuff, Vitaly.
HBZVN: You also released the HUNTER (Tamed Edition). How did this version of the album come about?
RHEA RAJ: I recently released the extended HUNTER (Tamed Edition), featuring stripped-down performances from my Spotify x Coke Studio sessions. Reimagining my rhythmic pop anthems as softer, ethereal versions felt empowering.
Corset, Diana Couture. Pants, Ottolinger. Gold arm cuff and tikka, Rhea Raj’s own.
HBZVN: What does HUNTER symbolize for you, and how do you see it shaping your future?
A: As I continue to evolve musically and visually, I plan to build on this universe as my launching pad, finding new ways to breathe life into these songs. HUNTER symbolizes a new beginning, and I feel more grounded than ever for what’s next.
Corset, Diana Couture. Pants, Ottolinger. Gold arm cuff and tikka, Rhea Raj’s own.
A MISSCHIEF PRODUCTION @misschief.
Artist: Rhea Raj @rhearaj.
Photographer: Reinhardt Kenneth @reinhardtkenneth.
Makeup: Emilia Werynska @emiliawerynska.
Hair: Cali Mazariego ( @calitamaz)
Manicure: Anna Tran ( @chibyannatran )
Stylist: TYME ( @hiitstyme ) , Rhea Raj ( @rhearaj )
Lighting Director: Hugo Arvizu ( @arvizu_arts )
Digitech: Suimay Lee ( @suimaylee )
Set Asst: Nicole Aiko ( @nicoleaikoo )
Photographer’s Assistant: Nessy Rayner ( @nessyrayner )
Behind The Scenes: David Fernandez
Production Assistant: Valeria Corona
Special thanks to the INTERCREW LA team @intercrewla for the impeccable hospitality.
Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam
