Payton Riley: Finding Her Voice Across Every Genre
At just 16 years old, singer-songwriter Payton Riley is already carving out a musical identity far beyond her years. Hailing from Montgomery, Texas, Payton has been singing since the age of 7 and writing songs since 9. While many artists struggle to find their sound, Payton embraces a wide range of genres from Christian and country to pop and rock, intentionally refusing to be boxed in.
“I like having music for all types of people. I started with Christian music around 2020, then moved into country, and now I’m shifting more into rock and pop. You’re always going to hear a little bit of everything from me.”
Lyrics from Life
Payton draws inspiration from powerful, emotionally connected artists like Miranda Lambert, Avril Lavigne, and Lainey Wilson. Their raw passion and fan engagement leave a lasting impression, and it’s something she channels into her own songwriting and stage presence.
She approaches songwriting with an open mind. Sometimes she starts with a melody, other times with a lyric or a line overheard in conversation. “I have a long list of notes,” she says. “Sometimes I just sit down and write the whole song.”
Her latest single, “Run Girl Run”, is a prime example of her ability to tap into the emotional experiences of others. Written with Chris Cunningham, the song encourages young women to leave toxic relationships behind. “It’s told from the outside looking in, and I feel like a lot of girls can relate.”
Payton’s songwriting has evolved alongside her voice. What began as songs about silly little crushes has grown into deeper explorations of heartbreak, family stories, and even literary inspiration. “My grandpa tells the craziest redneck stories from his childhood,” she laughs, “and I love reading fantasy books. They help widen my imagination.”
One upcoming release she’s especially proud of is “Ink”, a pop and folk-influenced song that marks the beginning of a new musical era. The lyric she’s most excited to share is, “You're nothing more than an actor who couldn't remember his lines.” It’s a gut-punch of a line that captures the feeling of being let down by someone you once trusted. The co-write was done with an older, more seasoned writer, which helped Payton explore the darker side of heartbreak. The song reflects her love for sad, emotional music and shows a deeper, more vulnerable layer of her artistry. “It’s definitely more of that emo, emotional sound I’ve always loved.”
In the Studio and On Stage
Payton is hands-on in the studio, contributing demos and sharing her vision for each track. She works with Steel Records, a studio she praises for its fresh ideas and positive energy. “They always come up with something unique,” she says. She’s recorded in Houston, Louisiana, and Tennessee, with each session adding a new layer to her experience.
When it comes to performing, Payton loves honky-tonks and listening rooms the most. “I like places where people are engaged. Places with a dance floor and good energy, or where I can tell the story behind the song.” A standout moment came after her appearance on Season 22 of American Idol, where she performed an original song on national television. “Someone came to a show and requested that same song. The whole room got quiet and started singing along. That was surreal. That’s why I do this. To connect with people.”
Even during long stretches of shows or travel, Payton stays energized by the crowd’s excitement and the occasional Dr Pepper. “I’ve been doing this most of my life. Once I step on stage, it’s game time. Nothing gets in the way.”
Learning, Growing, and Giving Back
Her musical influences run deep, but one piece of advice from Lainey Wilson continues to guide her. “Surround yourself with people who feel like family.” For Payton, that includes her mother, who she calls her “momager.” Together, they’ve built an independent career by handling social media, booking, rehearsals, and more. It’s a full-time effort that many don’t see.
“There’s so much behind the scenes people don’t understand unless you’re an artist yourself, it’s a lot of sacrifice.”
Despite her young age, Payton is already expanding her knowledge into music production. She’s currently taking a class to learn more about the technical side of the industry. “There’s always more to learn,” she says. “Even if you’re seasoned.”
What’s Next?
Payton hosted her second annual Young Artist Retreat at Dosey Doe in The Woodlands from August 3 to 5. The retreat sold out quickly and brought together young musicians and industry professionals for songwriting workshops, social media education, and career insight. Guest mentors included veteran songwriter Greg Barnhill, who has written for Faith Hill and Tim McGraw, along with Liam Goldmac and others.
She’s also preparing for the release of “Ink” and working on new songs that reflect her evolving style. If she had to put together a dream show lineup, she says it would feature Avril Lavigne, Hardy, and Olivia Rodrigo.
Photo by Shawnessy Ransom Photography.
Behind her voice is a thoughtful and driven artist who simply wants to help others through music. “I’m not in this for the money,” she says. “If my songs can help someone get through what they’re going through, that’s what matters most.”
Learn about more artists like Payton Riley with us at Loud and Heavy Booking.
