Riley Clemmons is currently the youngest artist signed to Mitchell Solarek‘s new label Maxx Recordings. The gifted high school student has a passion for music and is determined to inspire her generation.
BTSCelebs recently interviewed the young lady on a mission and learned more about her and her future in the music industry.
BTSCelebs: Who is Riley Clemmons?
Riley Clemmons: Riley is a high school student who is in the middle of the whirlwind of being a teenage girl. She uses the struggles of her relationships and faith to inspire lyrics and melodies that communicate her real thoughts. She wants nothing more than to use the power of music and words to wake up and encourage the generation she’s a part of.
You recently played “Annie” in your High School production of the timeless classic, tell us all about your audition and opening day.
Auditioning for Annie was a wonderfully nerve-racking experience. Personally, I really do enjoy the process of an audition, so I had a lot of positive, excited energy going into it. Growing up, I was constantly listening to the music and watching the movie, so being in the show was surreal. And opening night was magical. Watching a project go from rehearsals to a live show is an incredibly rewarding experience.
Which Broadway production would you love to join in the future? Which inspirational film?
Obviously, Wicked is a mind-blowing, wonderful, powerful show that I would love to be a part of. I’ve seen it three times and wept like a baby every time. But Les Miserables is a beautiful show, too. The music is incredible and the message is so powerful. As far as films go, although it may not be defined as inspirational by today’s terms, To Kill a Mockingbird takes the cake. The book is life-changing. There’s something really powerful about seeing a message like that conveyed through a movie.
How were you discovered by Maxx Recordings?
I was discovered completely by accident…timing is everything! I was singing in my school choir program, and my now-manager, Mitchell Solarek, happened to be sitting in the audience. We met, we talked, and he realized that my passion for writing and performing was a good fit for Maxx Records. My desire to create music with an honest, real, and hopeful message that appeals to teenagers, aligned with the goals of Maxx. I knew immediately that it was the perfect place to learn and grow as an artist.
What inspired you to pursue a career in music?
First and foremost, I love music. I love listening to it, dancing to it, writing it, singing it. I love it, and I always have. One of my biggest inspirations for pursing a career in music is the passion for the craft itself. Most importantly, I’m inspired everyday by the thoughts and struggles I face as a teenage girl. And I know that so many teens, just like me, face doubt and fear, and feel alone in that. Music gives me an outlet to bring comfort and encouragement not only to myself, but also to others.
Who are some of your favorite artists in the CCM industry? Who are your favorite actors?
There are so many incredible artists in the CCM industry. That makes it really, really difficult to pick favorites. I’m a huge fan of Francesca Battistelli, Natalie Grant, Casting Crowns, Matthew West, and Nicole C. Mullen. I could list so many. Right now, I’m really loving Christian Chenoweth and Reese Witherspoon. They are both brilliantly talented.
What upcoming projects can we expect from you in 2016?
You can expect really great music that connects with my generation. I’m currently writing with some amazingly talented and seasoned songwriters and searching for songs that speak to me. I can’t wait to be back in the studio and I can’t wait to share the music and lyrics on my first EP with Maxx. For me, it’s all about what I’m putting out into the world through the music I’m singing. The songs matter so much, so it will be very special to release them and see what conversation and change they can inspire.
Follow Riley on Twitter @RileyClemmons to learn more about this up and coming inspirational singer.
*BTSCelebs sends a special thanks to Wortman Works, Maxx Recordings (Maximum Artist Management) and Riley Clemmons for the interview and images.*
BTSCELEBS 