Interview: Riley Wheater

Where are you from?
I am from Ontario, Canada

What is your earliest memory of music?
My first memory of singing was in grade 3 when I did the school talent show and sang call me maybe by Carly Ray Jepson.

When did you start being an artist?
I think I really started taking my music seriously when I was in grade 6. That was when I started auditioning for a version of an idol that they had in my hometown.

How would you describe your style?
I think my sound is a nice mix of old school and new school country with a little bit of edge.

Are there any particular themes or messages that you often explore in your music?
With my music I tend to write a lot of love/heartbreak songs. It’s something I can relate to the most and I know lots of people out there can relate to it as well.

What is the meaning behind your stage name?
Honestly nothing. I was always hoping to come up with something I could go by, but just ended up going by my first and last name which is still very unique since Wheater isn’t a popular/well known last name.

What is the story behind your most famous song?
I’m not too sure what my most famous song is, but a lot of my songs have stories about me or about love and heartbreak. I like to write songs that people can relate to.

What is the hardest thing about being an artist?
One of the hardest things about being an artist would definitely have to be time, and waiting. It takes a lot of work and time to get where you wanna be, but if you really want it you will get there.

What’s the best thing about being an artist?
The best thing really is the journey. You see and meet so many amazing people along the way, and the journey makes it worth it in the end.

What are your goals for your music career?
My goal for my music is to make people happy and feel something, and to have people hear my story through music.

What do you like to do in your free time (outside of music)?
Other than music I love to spend time with my family. I am such a family girl. I also love to workout as well, and being outdoors, I find it helps to calm my mind and sometimes it helps with coming up with new song ideas.

Do you get involved with charities or causes that are important to you?
I actually do. Last year I sang at a charity called Bereaved Families of Durham, it was for families who have lost a child. I have also sang at a charity called Glimmer of Hope which raises money and awareness for epilepsy.

What is something that people would be surprised to know about you?
I think something that some people might be surprised about is that I was a dancer for 10 years, and did some acting for a few years when I was young. My older sister used to be a competitive dancer so once I was old enough to start taking classes I did. I’ve always loved to dance but as I got older I realized I had more of a passion for singing and began to focus more on that. However dance has helped me quite a bit with performing.

What does a typical day look like for you?
A typical day for me would be getting up and going on a walk with my dog, and possibly doing a work out. After that I usually get ready for work. I’m currently working at a bank when I’m not performing/song writing. Then when I get home or anytime in the day that I have free Im usually playing guitar or working on my music.

Do you have any upcoming projects we can be excited about?
I have an upcoming song I will be sharing very soon with everyone, so I definitely can’t wait.

What are some of the standout tracks on your latest project?
I think the most stand out track right now would have to be my new single Heart Around It. This new song of mine has gotten a lot of great feedback and I’m so thankful for that.

What are your favorite topics to write about?
I love to write about heartbreak or love. I find it is something that everyone can relate to.

How do you deal with creative block or artist block?
Whenever I’m stuck and I can’t write anything I’ll take a step back. I’ll walk away for a bit from writing and do something to get my mind off of it, and come back with a fresh head.

What is the best advice anyone has ever given you?
I think the best advice someone has ever given me was “why are you doing what you’re doing”. What they meant was if you’re not loving what you’re doing then why are you doing it, and to always remember why you started.

What was the best show or tour you have ever been on?
The best show I have ever done would have to be when I performed at the Mod Club when I was a part of Honey Jam. It was one night with a jam packed venue and I definitely won’t ever forget it.

What’s been your favorite moment of your career so far? Where can people find your music online?
My favourite part is whenever I have a show. I love getting the chance to play live for an audience. Everyone can find my music on all platforms!