Nashville Star Riley Smith Releases Single “I’m On Fire” Ahead Of Debut EP

Written by: Jen Dan

Riley Smith is best known as an actor, currently starring in the popular TV show Nashville and appearing in True Blood, True Detective, and The CW’s Frequency. The multi-talented artist, however, is ready to focus on another facet of his abilities – that of singer-songwriter.

Smith has been immersed in the Nashville music scene since starting his stint on Nashville, and he’s soaked up the traditional country music aspect the city swims in, as well as absorbing a variety of other music genres. Smith’s material reflects this diversity in sound as he blends country, rock, pop, and Americana into one engaging combination.

Smith is prepping for the release of his self-titled debut EP which will arrive worldwide on July 21^st. Lead single “I’m on Fire”, which was co-written by Matthew Perryman Jones and Tim Lauer (Hank Williams, Blake Shelton, Shawn Mendes), introduces listeners to Smith’s world.

“I’m on Fire” is a smooth, country-tinged mid-tempo pop number filled with Smith’s bittersweet, reflective lyrics and lightly wistful to fiery, exclaimed vocals. He sighs, “Any other day I’d be OK / but tonight I’m drinkin’ alone / and I can’t stop thinkin’ about you…” amid gently shimmering guitar lines, simmering percussion, and a sharp drum beat.

Smith explains that his compositions are “loner music” filled with a yearning to be close and to be understood. He reveals, “I want the EP to hopefully transcend to anyone who’s ever felt alone.” There is also a shared joy that comes from the creation of Smith’s music and the artist hopes to impart that once his self-titled EP comes out this summer.