Rising Music Star Rae Radick Of Iconic Women of Music On The Five Things You Need To Shine In The Music Industry
You have to believe in yourself before other people believe in you. I started my show, “Iconic Women of Music” because I knew I had more to offer than what I was doing, and I allowed men to trivialize me. Once I gained confidence in myself I realized I was giving power to others when I had the power all along. So I created my show, “Iconic Women of Music” and trusted that my taste, talents, and experience was enough to build a great show. The positive feedback and fan letters have proved it is being received beautifully!
As a part of our interview series with leaders, stars, and rising stars in the music industry, we had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Rae Radick.
Get ready for a spectacular celebration of music as Rae Radick brings her electrifying show, Iconic Women of Music, to stages across the nation in 2025. This high-energy, multigenerational performance honors legendary women who have shaped the music industry, showcasing timeless hits from Dolly Parton, Cher, Stevie Nicks, Tina Turner, Shania Twain, Janis Joplin, and many more divas. Packed with power, soul, unforgettable energy, and dazzling costumes, Rae Radick’s show promises to be an experience like no other.
Known for her dynamic stage presence and breathtaking vocal range, Rae Radick has spent over 15 years captivating audiences as a singer-songwriter. Her journey spans from her roots in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, to the heart of New York City, and now to Nashville, where she resides and tours nationally. Rae’s unique style, which she describes as a “Retro-glam fusion of country and pop,” blends her influences to create a sound that’s authentically hers.
Rae’s credentials include opening for Grammy Award-winning artist Miranda Lambert, Phil Vassar, Brett Young, Maddie & Tae, and Bret Michaels. She has graced iconic venues like the Palladium Theater in Times Square, Shea Stadium, Capitol Theater, and the Queen Mary in San Diego, and performed at festivals, including the Citadel Country Spirit Music Festival. Among her favorite performances is a memorable night with a 90-piece orchestra at the Riviera Theater in Buffalo, NY.
Now, Rae takes her passion to the next level with Iconic Women of Music, a dazzling tribute to the women who inspire her and millions of others. Packed with crowd-pleasing hits and unforgettable moments, Rae’s show brings audiences together in celebration of the voices that defined generations.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Before we dive in, our readers would love to learn a bit about your “origin story”. Can you tell us the story of how you grew up?
Thank you for having me. I grew up in the suburbs of Bucks County, Pennsylvania singing and dancing from a young age. My parents recognized my love and talent for music as a toddler, and enrolled me in dance classes at age three. Growing up I sang in the church choir and at age twelve I began taking guitar & piano lessons to improve my songwriting. I graduated from DeSales University and moved to New York to work as a professional actress, singer, songwriter, and model. From as far as I can remember I’ve been drawn to and surrounded by music, and grew up listening to all kinds of genres from Fleetwood Mac to Karen Carpenter to Whitney Houston and Shania Twain. I’ve loved the arts since I was an infant and throughout my life I found ways to be a part of it via singing, dancing, writing, and acting.
What inspired you to pursue a career in music, and how did your journey begin?
Since I can remember music has been the love of my life. I always say, “music chose me.” I started out as a dancer from age three, then when I was twelve years old I got the lead in my school musical, The Music Man, and my parents enrolled me in singing lessons shortly after. During my early teenage years I performed in my church choir, and wanted to learn how to play guitar and piano like my bandmates. Once I learned how to play I was able to put the numerous original songs in my head to paper with lyrics, chords, and song structure. I released my first album, Lovesick Wonder at sixteen. I loved writing songs and my parents encouraged me to share my talent helping me with my first album. It didn’t go far because I didn’t focus on marketing it, just giving it away to my local community. My whole life people told me I had a special gift for performing, and after that first album I began a serious journey of self discovery and honing my gifts of dance, song, composing, and storytelling.
Can you tell us the most interesting story that happened to you since you began your career?
When COVID-19 hit America and businesses froze for months, I got a job at a beauty salon because public shows were canceled until further notice. After a few months, out of the blue I got a call from NBC wanting to know if I can be on” The Blacklist” for a minor acting role. I was so excited to return to acting again! I trained as an actress in college as part of my theater background. So when I got the chance to go on set to be a part of a TV show that was light in the midst of a dark year. You can find me there on Season 8 Episode 10. One of the things I love about this career is things can happen out of the blue, and our job is to stay open to what opportunities present themselves.
It has been said that sometimes our mistakes can be our greatest teachers. Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you were first starting? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?
When I first started out as a teenager I’d make the mistake of talking a lot between songs. I’d inform the crowd of every little detail about the next song, fun facts, and hidden meanings. As much as people love trivia behind songs, part of the craft is leaving it up to the audience for interpretation. I used to talk so much as a kid, but now I realize that was probably nerves or a longing to connect with the audience. Now that I’m a seasoned professional I look back on those days and laugh. If I could give her advice I’d say, “Let the song speak for you. You don’t need to get audience validation first, let them use the song to play with their imaginations.”
None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story about that?
My dad has been the biggest supporter throughout my career. Many times I’ve called him on the phone about wanting to quit or how hard the business is, and he’s helped me navigate those tough times. Every career has its ups and downs, and I’ve been lucky to have a family that’s encouraged me throughout my life. He’s been a huge help with my “Iconic Women of Music” show. I’ve had the idea for an all inclusive tribute show for years and he helped bring it to life. It’s a tough business and I’ve never had to spearhead a show or business before- so his help, encouragement, and advice over the years has helped me grow in every possible way.
What are some of the most interesting or exciting projects you are working on now?
Right now I’m bringing my tribute show, “Iconic Women of Music” to stages across America and it’s been the highlight of my year! People are loving the show and I’m so grateful for the positive feedback it’s getting. I love this show because it celebrates confident women, contains an eclectic song list so everyone can sing along, and is appropriate for all ages. I really want to help young girls find their confidence because it’s hard today with social media and online programming from a young age. This show is fun for both me and the audience. Plus it’s different each time- so even if you see it twice it’s never the same! I’m also working on new original singles I plan to release in 2025. My first single will be released in March, then the summer and fall. I’m experimenting with a new sound and excited to share what I’ve been writing and composing.
We are very interested in diversity in the entertainment industry. Can you share three reasons with our readers about why you think it’s important to have diversity represented in music, film, and television? How can that potentially affect our culture?
Diversity is extremely important in this industry because it allows people to connect. When you see a character on TV that looks like you or hear a voice on the radio with your accent it allows that particular audience member to relate and feel seen. At the end of the day I firmly believe all anyone wants is to be loved, and feel they matter.
Diversity also lends itself to different perspectives which encourages more empathy and open mindedness. Having a circumstance and hearing other people’s point of view creates consideration and respect for others. It also builds well rounded, thoughtful individuals.
Diversity also encourages people to work together as a community and respect each other– which is how humans used to live for centuries. Now studies are showing more people are isolated and less social than ever before. Being around cultures, ages, colors, and sounds that are different than how you grew up fosters a greater sense of self. I fear with social media kids today can mistakenly think they are the center of the world (especially if they have millions of followers) but diversity teaches there’s a whole world outside your phone, family, and hometown which is humbling.
As a successful music star, you’ve likely faced challenges along the way. How do you stay motivated? How do you overcome obstacles in your career?
I stay motivated by focusing on what I can control, and always comparing myself to myself. Learning how to cope with failures, successes, and overall emotional regulation is key. By default I’m a naturally motivated person and always like to be busy and creative. On the hard days I remember to give myself grace for whatever hardships I may be facing, refrain from social media, and rest when needed. Sometimes I’ll give myself an entire day or two to stay in bed and watch movies– the concept of allowing myself a day to “do nothing” is key to my mental health. I think it’s important that everyone knows their personal way of processing emotions so when obstacles come along you have tools to help- such as journaling, running, meditating, nature, hobby, etc.
What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why?
1. You have to believe in yourself before other people believe in you. I started my show, “Iconic Women of Music” because I knew I had more to offer than what I was doing, and I allowed men to trivialize me. Once I gained confidence in myself I realized I was giving power to others when I had the power all along. So I created my show, “Iconic Women of Music” and trusted that my taste, talents, and experience was enough to build a great show. The positive feedback and fan letters have proved it is being received beautifully!
2 . Discipline is your friend. Being able to carve out time for work, play, rest, friends, family, and God are the keys to maintaining longevity and a happy life. Find what things make you the most excited to incorporate in your life that keeps you well rounded. I have a specific morning routine that wakes up my body and mind, daily workouts, office hours, healthy diet, and a special evening routine to wind down. Discipline is key and will help you in the long run to avoid burnout.
3 . It’s ok to outsource. When I first started my show I thought I had to do it all myself from music arrangements, to costumes, to background animations, business calls, marketing ads, etc. But the more you gather a team behind you the easier it is and overall more successful. Once I started outsourcing help such as a videographer, music director, and booking agent my stress levels dropped. Yes it is more expensive, but your body and mind will thank you for taking on less work and it is an investment.
4 . It’s about the audience. People, specifically artists, can get caught in the trap of making it about themselves. But life is the opposite. Once you get out of your head and onto other people’s needs, everything gets so much easier and enjoyable. When I’m sick and have to perform I get insecure and nervous, then I remember it’s not about me- it’s about serving the audience and making sure they have a great time. That always grounds me and takes the pressure off. Watch the YouTube video I made expanding on this!
5 . Staying positive through the negatives. It’s hard to keep positive when things don’t work out as I’d like, but I have many mantras that help me during the low times. Some of my favorites are, “Rejection is redirection”, “This too shall pass”, and “Everything is working out for my highest good”. Training your mind to trust the greater perspective versus your small perception helps tremendously.
Can you share some insights into your creative process? How do you approach songwriting? How do you approach musical collaborations?
My creative process is spiritual. I cannot force myself to write a song, so I live my life with an open mind and heart and when a melody/lyric/concept comes to me it’s organic. My phone applications like “Voice Memos” and “Notes” are filled with songs. My most popular songs are the ones that came to me randomly so I go with the flow and try to write that way.
Collaborations can be tough for me. The best way I work with others is if they come up with a melody or chord progression, and I can put lyrics to it, or vice versa. In my past experiences, when we both start from scratch and try to write together at the same time it’s not my best work. I enjoy writing by myself, then consulting with another writer for their opinion, compared to starting from zero and writing at the same time.
Your music has resonated with so many fans worldwide. What do you believe sets your music apart?
My blend of pop, country, and rock. Since my taste in music is so eclectic, that comes out in my writing and sound. My fans are never bored because my songs are different from each song. Sometimes I’ll say to my producers, “This song is more 80s pop” and another song I’ll say, “This song is more Miranda Lambert country”. I let the songs speak to me as I write, almost like each song is it’s own child with a different personality. My audience has a wide range of music they listen to so we relate to each other in that way.
With your busy schedule and demanding performances, how do you prioritize self-care and maintain a balance between your personal life and career in the music industry?
Self care is critical and my number one priority during tour season. During performance season my social time suffers because I prioritize rest and recovery. Performing is very physical (much like a professional athlete) so the day after shows I try to rest and rehydrate. Admittedly, I’ve always let my work overrule my social life so I’ve never been good at balancing friends and demanding show schedule, but I’m getting better. Scheduling friend dates weeks in advance helps!
You are a person of enormous influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. :-)
The movement of self worth and confidence. Hence my show, “Iconic Women of Music.” Although society has come a long way, there’s still work to be done with people believing in themselves- specifically women. I’d really like this movement to be focused on the youth from middle school and high school. Teaching and inspiring kids of their own self worth, emotional regulation, healthy social media management, body image balance, and the power of positive thinking. Being a role model specifically for young girls is something I’m very passionate about, and would love to hold seminars/talks/programs to give future generations the tools I wish I had at that age.
Is there a person in the world, or in the US whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we tag them. :-)
Dolly Parton. I’ve always admired how well she balances being an artist, businesswoman, sister, wife, activist, and overall good person. She’s the true example of a woman who’s deserved every success earned. She’s always been honest about who she is, confident, witty, and overall a good role model.
How can our readers continue to follow your work online?
Here are my handles!
Website: https://www.raeradick.com/
Linktree: https://www.raeradick.com/linktree
Shopify: https://raeradick.myshopify.com/collections/best-sellers
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rae.radick
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconicwomenofmusic/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raeradick
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iconicwomenofmusic
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1OOH09nkytxfFVeTfBRlP8?si=5QVpyhfATE66RvF0hFsXCw
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/raeradick
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/rae-radick/1509126173
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rae.radick?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
This was very meaningful, thank you so much! We wish you continued success!
It was my pleasure thank you for having me!
