From Darkness to Light
Riley Clemmons on Mental Health and God’s Love
Riley Clemmons has been a significant voice in Christian music since she was a teenager. Over the years, she has grown both as an artist and an individual. Her journey has been marked by numerous changes, all of which have shaped her music and message. Join us in our conversation with her.
If you’ve never heard Riley Clemmons’ music before, her song “Loved By You” is the perfect introduction. Riley shares, “I’ve been in this industry for a hot minute. I started when I was 17…have gone through lots of growing and changing and all the good stuff, but ‘Loved by You,’ it’s kind of reintroducing this whole new chapter that I’m stepping into after taking nine months off to get my mental health in check.” This song shares her musical journey and a keen personal transformation.
Born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee, Riley was introduced to the music world at a young age. Her upbringing in a city known for its rich musical heritage undoubtedly influenced her artistic path. At just 17, she signed her first record deal and quickly made a name for herself with her debut single, “Broken Prayers.”
Despite her early success, Riley’s journey was far from smooth. The pressures of the music industry, combined with personal struggles, presented significant challenges. “Loved By You” celebrates her growth, and a declaration of her renewed sense of purpose and identity.
The Birth of “Loved By You”
Riley recounts the period at the beginning of 2020 as the lowest she had ever been. She was “depressed and anxious all the time and just dealing with a lot of newfound insecurity and nerves.” The global pandemic had just begun, adding to the stress and uncertainty she was already feeling. The isolation and disruption of normal life amplified her struggles, making it a particularly dark period. This challenging time in her life became the catalyst for the song.
During this season Riley felt something significant. “I know it was the Lord, but I felt a strong nudge to take time, to go get quiet with Him, and to choose to silence other voices so that I could be reminded of what my identity is and where I get my value from. Because the reality is, in this world, it’s so easy to forget or to be told lies.” So, she took a step back from her career for a much-needed break to focus on her mental health and spiritual well-being.
A Time for Reflection and Healing
Riley’s decision to take a nine-month hiatus was not easy. In an industry that often equates success with constant productivity and visibility, stepping back felt risky. However, it was a necessary step for her healing. During this period, she dedicated herself to prayer, meditation, and seeking God’s guidance.
She describes this time as a journey of rediscovery, where she learned to silence the noise around her and tune into God’s voice.
This period of reflection and seeking God was crucial for her healing and rediscovery of her true worth. It allowed her to confront her insecurities and anxieties head-on and find solace in God’s unwavering love.
We all need periods of rest and reflection, even in the midst of demanding careers and responsibilities.
The Message of “Loved By You”
“Loved By You” tells the story of Riley’s transformation. She moved from feeling “alone, unseen, unknown, and misunderstood to being reminded that above any other thing in the world—that I am loved by God entirely. And that changed my life.”
Many listeners say “Loved By You” resonates deeply with them, especially those who may be experiencing similar struggles. The song reminds us of God’s unconditional love and the transformative power of embracing His love. It speaks to the heart of anyone who has ever felt lost, insecure, or unworthy, offering hope and reassurance.
Riley’s Advice for Christ Followers
Riley emphasizes the importance of mental health and the need to seek God in quiet times. She encourages others to remember their identity and value in God’s love. Her journey and music offer hope for those navigating their own challenges. She advises fellow Christ followers to “take time to go get quiet with Him and to choose to silence other voices.” She believes it’s essential for spiritual growth and mental well-being.
It’s important that we be honest about our struggles and seek help when needed. Riley’s decision to take a break and focus on her mental health was a courageous step that not only helped her personally but also allowed her to create music that resonates deeply with her audience. Her openness about her journey serves as an encouragement to others to prioritize their mental health and seek God’s guidance in times of difficulty.
As you listen to the song, take a moment to reflect on its themes and let its message resonate in your heart. Let this song be a reminder of the transformative power of God’s love and the importance of taking time to reconnect with Him.
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