Piya

In the artist's words:

Rage and Warmth in Electronic Pop

Piya makes music for anyone who doesn’t want to choose between chanson, jazz, pop, and big emotions. The Mannheim-based musician combines poetic German lyrics with electronic sounds, virtuosic piano playing, and a voice that oscillates somewhere between deep jazz warmth and fragile spoken-word vocals.

This is what Piya’s music sounds like

Piya calls her sound “digital chanson”—and that fits pretty well. Her songs are melodic, sometimes playful, and often pleasantly unconventional. Classical piano passages meet experimental pop, jazzy harmonies, and electronic soundscapes. Added to this are lyrics about identity, feeling overwhelmed, anger, vulnerability, and the struggle to find one’s place in a rather complicated world.

On stage, Piya initially comes across as calm and almost mystical. Then she captures the audience’s attention with virtuoso arpeggios, powerful vocals, and musical experiments. One notable detail: she has even played the piano and harmonica at the same time—multitasking, but with a touch of sophistication.

Piya can perform solo at the piano, as part of a duo, or with a full band. Her musical style ranges from intimate singer-songwriter pop to a larger, jazzy-electronic live show.

A mix of genres from classical to jazz

Piya received intensive classical piano training from an early age. Later, her journey took her through jazz and the Popakademie in Mannheim to her own music. In 2023, she was part of the PopCamp program, where she was presented as an artist blending experimental pop, jazz, chanson, and singer-songwriter music.

Her music isn’t quite so easy to pigeonhole—fortunately. Anyone who likes Sophie Hunger, CATT, or poetic German-language pop with rough edges might quickly find themselves drawn to Piya.

Piya’s Well-Known Releases

Piya gained recognition, among other things, through the viral success of her videos and the song “Schreie schreie schreie.” With her EP “TIGER,” she has further developed her sound. The release showcases an artist who isn’t afraid to switch between quiet, vulnerable moments and big musical outbursts.

Piya’s live performances are intense as well: her first tour sold out in five out of six cities. She’s also collaborated with Marlo Grosshardt, including on the song “Ein Spiel.”

If you’re into German-language music with unusual sounds, powerful lyrics, and a good dose of stage magic, you should keep an eye on Piya. Or go see her live—that’s where her digital chanson really comes into its own.

Frequently Asked Questions About Piya

What genre does Piya play?

Piya blends digital chanson, electronic pop, jazz, experimental pop, and singer-songwriter music. Her songs combine poetic German lyrics with piano, modern sounds, and a distinctive voice.

What is a well-known song by Piya?

Piya gained particular attention thanks to the viral success of “Schreie schreie schreie.” The song showcases her emotional and direct side and makes it clear that her music can pack quite a punch.

Has Piya released an EP?

Yes. Piya has released the EP “TIGER.” On it, she continues to explore her sound, which ranges from chanson to electronic pop and rock-inspired moments.

Who is Piya?

Piya is the stage name of Pia Bornitz, a musician from Mannheim. She plays the piano, sings, and combines her classical musical training with jazz, pop, and experimental sounds.