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It takes a lot of courage to walk away from an award-winning, chart-topping band who’s toured the globe with Taylor Swift, Rascal Flatts, and Sheryl Crow. But in 2015, Rachel Reinert knew in her gut that if she was ever going to fulfill her dream of being a solo artist, it had to be now. So she decided to take a leap of faith and walked away from the band Gloriana.

Since then, she’s taken all of her life experiences and crafted them into her debut album, Into the Blue, out now wherever you stream or buy music. Pop Culturalist caught up with Rachel to discuss this exciting chapter in her career.

PC: How did you discover your passion for music?
Rachel: I started singing at a very early age. My first piece of music was a cassette tape of Sheryl Crow’s “All I Wanna Do” when I was five years old. I would play it constantly and sing along every chance that I could. From that point on, music became my passion.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Rachel: Stevie Nicks! She is always her most authentic self. Plus, she’s one of the greatest songwriters of all time.

PC: You’ve had a lot of success already in your career. When you look back, is there a particular moment that stands out?
Rachel: There are many moments that I am incredibly proud of, but I try not to focus too much on my past accomplishments. I would say that finally getting to release my debut solo album, despite what has been going on in the world right now, was such a huge moment for me personally—most especially because it was a dream of mine since I was very young, and it was many years in the making. I never knew if I would actually have the opportunity to write, record, and release my own album. I’m incredibly grateful that I have had the chance to do so.

PC: What’s one thing you know now that you wish you knew when you started your career?
Rachel: To absorb every moment and be extremely present, no matter what. I took a lot of things for granted when I was younger, and I think I used to let stress and fear override my ability to be in the moment. I try my best to be a lot more laid back and enjoy every opportunity these days.

PC: How has your experience as a member of Gloriana prepared you for this next chapter in your career?
Rachel: It’s just knowing how to navigate my way through this business. The fact that I’ve had so many experiences already, I know how to handle myself and what I’m getting into each step of the way. It’s nice to have the comfort of certain things not being firsts for me. I’ve already made a lot of those mistakes that you make when you’re a brand-new artist, so I’m glad to have my footing in a way.

PC: How difficult was the decision to leave, and what did you learn about yourself during that process?
Rachel: It was a really hard decision and not one that I took lightly. Gloriana was a huge part of my adult life, and in many ways, it was a comfort zone, but I knew I had to follow my heart and chase after my original dream of being a solo artist. I learned so much about myself throughout that process, but I think it was mainly how much I was willing to sacrifice for my dream.

PC: You just released your new album. Tell us about the inspiration behind Into the Blue.
Rachel: Into the Blue was inspired by my life. It’s a very personal record. Every song comes from my real experiences. I reflect on everything from past relationships to my departure from the band to my current relationship/marriage to finding myself as a person.

PC: If you had to pick one song off Into the Blue that best encompasses you as an artist, what would it be and why?
Rachel: I would say “Here.” It’s a song that feels dreamy and magical. It’s about how I believe everything happens for a reason and leads you to where you are supposed to be. When I listen to it, it just feels the most like me.

PC: What does the rest of 2020 hold for you?
Rachel: With COVID-19, who knows?! My hope is to get on the road as soon as possible to play these songs for my fans.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Rachel: Post Malone

PC: First album you bought?
Rachel: No Doubt—Tragic Kingdom

PC: First concert you attended?
Rachel: John Mayer

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
Rachel: John Mayer—Heavier Things. That was when lyrics really connected with me in a big way. This inspired me to become a songwriter.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
Rachel: The Ryman. I have yet to ever perform there!

PC: A must-have on the road?
Rachel: A good pillow, red wine, true-crime podcasts, and my husband.

To keep up with Rachel, follow her on Twitter, Instagram, and Spotify. Pick up or stream Into the Blue today.

Photo Credit: Susan Berry