Riley Smith is best known for starring as bad boy rocker Markus Keen on the hit US drama Nashville, but the talented actor and singer has now released his latest single titled ‘I’m On Fire‘. The track was co-written by Matthew Perryman Jones and Tim Lauer who have worked with the likes Hank Williams, Shawn Mendes, and Blake Shelton. And the official music video has also been released.
Smith manages to perfectly blend country rock, hard-hitting soulful Americana with modern pop making for a sound rarely found in the world of music today. ‘I’m On Fire’ is the first track to be lifted off the actor, singer/songwriter’s self-titled EP. The eagerly anticipated record has been produced by Kevin Leach who has worked with a number of indie acts and major label artists.
The five song EP is inspired Riley Smith’s time in Nashville and is relative to feelings and emotions he had whilst living in such a compelling yet isolating city. Speaking about the writing process, Riley says: “My influences are as diverse as the city I set out with a goal and plan to utilize my time in Nashville to write with as many writers as I could with the goal of making an album”
After moving to Nashville, Smith dove into the realm of classic country music, exploring it’s history and roots while developing his own unique sound and style. “It’s what I think makes the sound unique and kinda difficult to put in a box.” Smith says about his upcoming EP.
Smith describes the EP as ‘loaner music’, saying: “there’s a common theme of distance and space running through the EP. There’s a longing and yearning to the music. Lonesome at times. I want the EP to hopefully transcend to anyone who’s ever felt alone”.
The lead single ‘I’m On Fire’ features Riley Smith’s warm vocals which made him a fan favourite during his time on Nashville. Speaking about the single, Smith says: ‘I’m on Fire’ exemplified what my time writing in Nashville was all about to me. The synergy. The talent.”
You can watch the official music video for Riley Smith’s new single ‘I’m On Fire’ here:
Riley Smith’s self-titled EP will be released on the 21st of July, worldwide. Make sure you follow the country star on Twitter @RileySmith to keep up to date with all his latest news!
What do you think of Riley Smith’s new single ‘I’m On Fire’? Are you excited for his new EP? Let us know your thoughts over on Twitter @CelebMix.