Rising Stars: Meet Lauren Raybon

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Raybon.

Hi Lauren, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself
I was born and raised in Hoover, Alabama. I stumbled upon music very organically as I had always had a love for it. One day, I was listening to one of my friends play guitar and sing. My intrigue was struck by what I wanted to pursue. Shortly after that day, I was showing up for my first guitar lesson that turned into my second, third, and so on.

Then in 2014, I began to take lessons with Natalie Kaye Robertson, owner of a Nashville-based institute called O-Kaye Productions. The spark was lit! I found myself writing original music which snowballed into pursuing a professional career in the music industry. Since 2017, I have been enjoying the art of co-writing with other artists all over the southeast. I am driven to build my identifiable sound, style of songwriting, and performing.

My love for songwriting and artistry brought me to Nashville, TN in August of 2019 right after graduating high school. I am pleased to announce that my debut single “Wildcard” was released on all major music platforms on October 15, 2021. I am honored to join the group of other creative artists that long to impact the world with their music and for me to show the world who I am as a singer/songwriter.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Choosing to pursue a career as a recording artist and songwriter is choosing a rough path as it is not an easy industry to break into. Growing up in Alabama, sports were primary. It is the pinnacle of almost every weekend for everyone. At times, I felt misunderstood because what I chose to pursue was not the normal career path.

In fact, it was unordinary but nonetheless, I persevered. Making the move to Nashville gave me the chance to be surrounded by like-minded people who are pursuing similar career goals. I was lucky to have such a strong support system that consisted of family, friends, and mentors. Knowing that I have supportive people in my corner makes the struggle a bit easier.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am best known for the energy I bring to the stage. I feel like that sets me apart from other artists who are in the same lane as me. I strive to connect and for everyone to enjoy from my live performance to the song selection.

I want to impact lives with my music as music is a universal language for all human beings. It brings a sense of commonality among us, no matter what differences are present. I am very comfortable with co-writing with fellow songwriters. I feel that collaboration is key in writing a successful song. I am currently studying Music Business at Belmont University in Nashville, TN. I am thrilled to join that community and am proud to represent them.

I also try not to be a “starving artist,” so my way of means is provided through being a nanny. I have a big heart for children and it never feels like a job. Along with that, I have been an assistant to a local band as well as working with organizations such as Music Biz Besties and The Muscle Shoals Songwriters Festival.

We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
I define success as inner happiness. That may look different for every individual, but I am so grateful to be in an industry that champions the care for your emotional well-being. I remember a mentor telling me early on that if you pursue what you love, the money will come later.

I have lived by that ever since hearing it. Being in a career that brings me so much joy, happiness and release describe nothing but success for me.

Contact Info:

• Email: laurenraybonmusic@gmail.com
• Website: www.laurenraybon.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/laurenraybon
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/laurenraybonmusic/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/laurenmraybon
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCua8bHgLE91R3TyDeVieQ4Q
• SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/laurenraybon
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@laurenraybon

Image Credits
Libby Danforth