Risa Binder Talks with PARADE in Preparation for The CMA Music Festival

Emmy-nominated recording artist Risa Binder is hitting the stage in the town she loves this week and she’s got a new single, You Haul, in her back pocket for a little extra country punch. Binder will be performing at the CMA Music Festival in Nashville on June 9.

Catching some major attention in the music world (and an Emmy nomination) after her song Just Like That gained attention on the popular daytime soap General Hospital, Binder’s next EP, Nashville, would see plenty of playtime, paving the way for more touring and time in the recording studio.

We caught up with Binder for a little Q & A to find out more about her country music career and who she’s hoping to bump into at the CMA Music Fest.

As a singer/songwriter, what most inspires your work?
Simply waking up every morning inspires me. I love people, travel and great stories. Most of my songs are inspired by stories about me or friends of mine.

Touring and opening for country music legend Ronnie Milsap is certainly an honor and a nod to your talent. What have you learned from working so closely with a music icon?
I learned so much watching Ronnie and his band every night. I was honored to open for him, and [for] every night I got the opportunity to sing before him, I give thanks. They are truly a family onstage and off and I aspire to have my band always feel like my family as well. Ronnie’s songs are legendary, and each night I would have people come up to me after the show telling me about how certain Ronnie songs were the soundtrack to their lives. The best thing we can do as artists and songwriters is write a song that truly touches the hearts of the people listening.

You are notorious for your post-concert “Sweet ‘n Greets” with fans. What happens when you add cupcakes to this music tradition?
Ha ha! Yes. I love to have Sweet n Greets after my shows. It so fun to meet everyone and share a little sweet treat. It’s a great way to end the night. Cupcakes are always a hit. Especially the mini cupcakes. Yum!

Fans will be able to see you at Nashville’s 2017 CMA Music Fest. Besides your fans, are there any folks you’d love to bump into at the festival?
I am super-excited to perform at CMA Fest this year! We are playing at 4pm on Friday at The Gildan Broadway Stage right near the Hard Rock Cafe. I’m sharing the stage with great acts, and I would love to bump into Little Big Town, Thomas Rhett, and high five Dierks Bentley.

It can be difficult for artists to follow and realize their dreams. What advice do you have for those who are on the journey?
For me, the most incredible feeling is performing live and connecting with the crowd. I would tell other artists to get specific and know exactly what they want and where they want to go in the industry. Write it down. Place your goals where you can see them when you wake up and when you go to sleep. Then begin taking action each day, carving out your own beautiful path to get there. There is only one you. Keep creating. Keep writing. Keep sharing your story with the world.

What’s next for Risa Binder?
I just released my new single You Haul. It’s a fun party vibe breakup song. We are gearing up for a radio tour for the summer that starts June 12th. The video for You Haul is so fun and I can’t wait to share that with you, too!

Click HERE to listen to Risa's new single 'You Haul' now!