In Episode 68 of the Try That in a Small Town podcast, country artist RaeLynn opened up about how she stayed true to herself in an industry that wanted her to compromise. She talked about rejection, independence, motherhood, and the power of faith—all while building a music career without selling out.
The music industry, especially in Nashville, can be brutal. RaeLynn admitted that early on, she tried to play the part they wanted—blonde, bubbly, and pop-friendly. But when she put out a song like “Love Triangle,” which told the hard truth about growing up in a broken home, everything changed. That song struck a nerve because it was real. And real still matters.
But her most powerful moment came when she shared the story behind “She Chose Me,” a song inspired by her mom’s decision to choose life even in difficult circumstances. RaeLynn didn’t know the full story growing up, but when her mom told her, it hit hard. She wrote the song and released it—even though she knew it might make some people uncomfortable. That’s courage. That’s standing for something.
She also talked about going independent for five years—no label, just her fans, faith, and hard work. She didn’t play victim. She went to work. And despite never having a No. 1 radio single, RaeLynn has made a successful living doing what she loves. No shortcuts. No compromise. Just hustle and conviction.
Now a wife and mother, she says the industry doesn’t define her anymore. “If this all went to hell tomorrow,” she said, “I’m good. I love being a mom. I love being a wife.” That’s the heart of it. In a world chasing fame and attention, RaeLynn puts family first.