Chandler Marie Talks “Ride Away,” Keeping Christ in Christmas, and Trusting God Through Nashville’s “No’s”

For Chandler Marie, pursuing country music has meant learning to step beyond stage fright-and trusting God when the answer is "not yet." Originally from McDonough, Georgia, the independent Nashville-area singer-songwriter brings country roots, pop and Americana influences, and a love of real-life storytelling to her music. In this JubileeCast interview, Chandler discusses the restless romance behind "Ride Away," the family Christmas tradition that inspired her forthcoming rendition of "Merry Christmas Mary," and the encouragement that has kept her going through rejection and uncertainty.

JubileeCast: For readers discovering Chandler Marie for the first time, how would you introduce yourself, and how did growing up in Georgia shape the person and songwriter you are today?

Chandler Marie: My name is Chandler Marie, and I am an independent artist living in the Nashville area. I am originally from McDonough, GA. Growing up, my parents always pushed me to dream bigger and pursue whatever the Lord put on my heart. That eventually meant moving to Nashville to pursue music full-time.

I think what shaped me the most was having the love and support of my parents, family, and friends, and also leaning on the Lord's guidance in my life. I'm still very much that little girl from Georgia, just in a different city.

JubileeCast: When did you know you wanted to pursue music, and how did moving to Nashville help you overcome stage fright and build your confidence?

Chandler Marie: I knew at a young age I wanted to pursue music in some form. I sang in the praise band in high school and choir, although I had the worst stage fright. I didn't enjoy the crowd looking at me, and I was so nervous.

I think what helped me the most was moving to Nashville and being forced to step out of my comfort zone. Meeting my producer, Robbie Artress, helped build my confidence and encouraged me to keep going. He has always been so supportive and creative with my ideas. I think having someone like that in your corner is really important when starting a new career.

JubileeCast: Your sound combines country roots with pop and Americana influences. How do those different styles serve your storytelling, and what do you hope listeners find in your music?

Chandler Marie: I want listeners to feel connected to my music. I like to incorporate different genres into my country roots to be able to relate to a variety of people. Not every person enjoys the same type of music, so I want to be able to reach as many people as I can.

I also love storytelling. Whether it be my own experiences or other people's experiences, I find it very fun and exciting to create music out of real-life events.

JubileeCast: "Ride Away" explores the heartbreak of loving a rodeo cowboy who longs for freedom. How did the song come together, and what does its story reveal about holding on and letting go?

Chandler Marie: "Ride Away" has been one of my favorites by far. I wrote this song with Janie Waddell and Dana Perdue. This song came about while chitchatting like we always do. One person said something, then I said something, and then the idea was born.

But this is such a true song. Sometimes wanting to hold on can make it worse, just knowing that the person you love is longing for something else.

JubileeCast: Your upcoming release, "Merry Christmas Mary," has a personal connection to your childhood. What memories does it hold, and why do you want to share its message now?

Chandler Marie: "Merry Christmas Mary" has been a part of my Christmas mornings every year growing up. My dad would always have it playing, and we would sing it together.

I chose this song to be different and to bring the true meaning of Christmas back into the country scene. It's one that really brings Christ back into Christmas. I am firm in my faith and my love for the Lord, and I want to share that with the world to make sure people know what Christmas is truly all about: the birth of our Savior!

JubileeCast: You've faced "no's," "not yet" responses, and moments when you considered quitting. What has helped you persevere, and what would you say to someone whose dream is taking longer than they hoped?

Chandler Marie: Oh boy! There are so many times that I have been told "no" or "not yet," leaving me wondering if I am even on the right path. Through many doubts, I honestly thought about quitting. But I always remember what my parents have told me. They always said, "You're going to get a million no's in life, but those no's are forming and shaping you for that one yes that God has in store for you."

Wrapping my head around that really opened my eyes to show me that some doors may not open, but I am learning and getting ready for when God does finally open the right door. I think a support system is very important to keep believing in yourself.

I am very grateful for the doors that have been opened for me in my career thus far, and I am truly thankful for the "no's" and "not yet" responses. They are just little winks from the Lord saying that's not for me right now.

Some advice I would give is to keep the faith. It's all in God's timing! He sees much more for your future than you know. I say that to say, it's going to be tough. You will experience doubt, hurt, and a long waiting game! But trust His will, and you will be on the right track. Always remember, something greater is coming!

Listen: Chandler Marie on Apple Music
Official website: ChandlerMarieMusic.com