Risa was born in New York City and is an alumni of Forest Hills High School, home to Simon and Garfunkel and the Ramones (who Risa grew up with).  Risa was a professional actor before pursuing her initial ambition to become a singer/songwriter and worked in the Broadway cast of 'Grease' playing Frenchy with Jack Coleman (Heroes) as Danny Zuko. She appeared as Mae in 'Cat on a Hot Tin Roof' with Julie Graham, William Gaunt and Joe McCann as well as appearing with Sinitta in London.  Risa's music has been called 'Sophisticated, melodic, pop' and the BBC have called Risa 'lyrically courageous , musically eclectic musical compositions performed with genuine inspiration'.  Risa has supported Nerina Pallot, Jess Klein, James Apollo and  has headlined her own gigs, including 'An Intimate Afternoon' at BBC Radio Lancs.