In this in-depth OOTB Interview, rising Darke County, Ohio country singer-songwriter Lauren Rismiller tells all about her just released Nashville-recorded new song “Heart Broke In A Bar” (Tennessee Rolling Hill Records), her women in country influences, struggles and hurdles, small town roots, live performances, future goals and much more.
What do you hope listeners take away after hearing your new single “Heart Broke In A Bar”?
I hope listeners find my new single to be fun, sassy, and realize that it’s acceptable to have your heart broke and still reminisce about the relationship.
This song starts out as a longing for love, the transition to owning it as a single person and drawing boundaries in the end.
I hope the song sparks a relationship with the listeners as if they are living the song with me, and it translates to what they too may have felt at that “break-up” moment: the loneliness and growth, and then recognizing it’s okay to take care of yourself and, even while tempting, not to make the same mistake twice.
Tell us a little bit about your new single “Heart Broke In A Bar.” How do you describe the storyline and what listeners can expect to hear in production from your perspective?
When I wrote it, I was going through a tough breakup, and to write it healed me in a way.
The storyline is kind of flirty, with lyrics like “I don’t mess around with a goodbye kiss, or slow dancing.”
The words describe the romantism of what I want in a relationship; but, being let down, I’ve learned—even while tempting—not to mess around with what didn’t work in the past.
“Heart Broke In A Bar” describes me trying to figure out who I am as a person after a break-up and how to move forward with my life. I still feel the urge to find the right someone, but at times, scared to walk back into something too soon.
I began performing in bars when I was 17; I’d look around at all the lonely people sitting on barstools, trying to find romance.
Performing is a big part of my life and I love that I’m heart broke in a bar telling stories to everyone I meet!
Listeners can expect to hear a 90’s country vibe with sass and a little bit of emotion in my voice when they play the song.
With “Heart Broke In A Bar” having a 90’s country feel to it, who are some of your influences as they relate to 90’s women of country music, as well as any newcomers from whom you draw inspiration?
I’m inspired by the extraordinary talents of Lainey Wilson, Shania Twain, Jo Dee Messina, Martina McBride and Jennifer Nettles—these women have all played a major role in shaping me as an artist because of their authenticity, whether it’s their voice, their songwriting, or the way they carry themselves on stage.
I’ve always been drawn to the emotional depth of ’90s country music and the way it blends fun, heartbreak, storytelling, and real-life experiences. That balance is something I try to reflect in my own music, especially in songs like “Heart Broke in a Bar.”
Lainey Wilson is a huge inspiration for me, especially in how she’s built her career by staying true to herself and going after what she wants, no matter how difficult the path. I can relate to her drive and work ethic, and I live by a similar mindset: “if you want to be a dreamer, you’ve got to be a doer.”
Jennifer Nettles is a powerful songwriter who expresses emotion. That’s something I’m constantly working to develop in my own music; being able to write songs that truly connect on a deeper level.
My goal is to follow in the footsteps of artists who are both strong performers, and intriguing and captivating storytellers to make a “connection.”
While I have many influences and aspire to follow in similar career paths, I’m working to create my own path and my own sound as an artist. I think it’s even more special to be true to yourself and define your own worth.
I want to continue growing into an artist who brings honesty, emotion and heartfelt, “believable” storytelling to country music in my own way.
How do you tie your geographical MidWestern Ohio roots and upbringing into your lyrics and music?
My Ohio roots have everything to do with my lyrics and music. I’m from Versailles, Ohio and am very proud to be from a small town.
Growing up in that environment has shaped not only who I am, but the stories I tell through my songs. A lot of my music reflects small-town life and real experiences.
My grandparents live on a farm, so I’ve also been around that country lifestyle my whole life, and that influence naturally bleeds through in my writing and perspective as an artist.
Every small town has its own story, and I want mine to be heard through my songwriting and performances.
It’s important to me that my music stays honest and reflects where I come from. “No matter where I go in my career, I’ll always carry my small-town roots with me.”
What are some of the challenges or hurdles that you’ve had to overcome early on either writing, or recording in the studio?
Some of the biggest challenges I’ve faced with recording music is the timeline; sometimes unexpected roadblocks in the creative and recording process can delay the completion of the song.
But, the roadblocks can be good for an artist because that means you are growing and learning about the creative and recording process itself.
“Never rush the process and make sure you love the song,” is some of the best advice I’ve received.
I worked really hard on “Heart Broke In A Bar” and made a lot of changes, (which pushed back the timeline for the original release date); but, in the end, it was worth the time spent.
I felt a little nervous the first time singing this song in a recording studio, because it’s not the same as a live performance.
Even though I struggled the first time, I didn’t give up, and kept pushing myself to improve. After working so hard on “Heart Broke In A Bar,” I realized it helped me grow as a person and as a country artist.
What can fans that attend your summer shows expect at live shows?
Fans can expect a lot of energy and authenticity at my live shows. I love bringing my personality to the stage and sharing the stories behind my songs, so people can really understand where they come from.
My goal is always to lift people up, no matter what kind of day they’re having. I want them to feel the energy and emotion in the music and leave feeling better than when they walked in.
Songwriting has always been a way for me to work through life’s ups and downs, but when I perform, it becomes something shared.
I want my fans to feel like they’re part of my story, and maybe even see their own experiences reflected in it.
At the end of the day, my shows are about connection, energy, and creating moments where people feel seen, understood, and not alone.
What do you do in your down time when you are not writing, recording or performing? What gives you respite or fun?
In my downtime, I like to slow things down and step away from the busy side of music.
I enjoy going for walks outside, taking long drives, traveling when I can, and spending time with friends on the weekends.
I also love visiting my family whenever I get the chance, it helps keep me grounded.
Even when I’m not actively writing, recording, or performing, I’m always observing life around me. Anything and anyone can become inspiration for a song. Sometimes just being out in everyday life sparks ideas I can turn into lyrics later.
I also find a lot of comfort in listening to country music. It reminds me why I started and helps me feel connected to the artists and stories that inspired me in the first place. That connection often leads to new ideas or creative direction for my own music.
For me, downtime is really about resetting, staying inspired, and living life so I always have something real to write about. “I think the best songs come from living life, and I try to never stop doing that.”
What are your career plans and goals through the remainder of the year?
My career plans and goals for the remainder of the year are focused on continuing to release new music, sharing my stories and expanding to a wider audience.
I’m also launching a run of shows this summer as part of my “Heartbreak Country Summer Tour,” which has been an exciting way to connect with fans through this new music.
My goal is to continue expanding into more states and reaching new audiences across the country.
Looking ahead, one of my main goals for next year is to release an EP that really showcases who I am as an artist and the direction of my sound.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
I’d like to add that “Heart Broke In A Bar” has been long anticipated, and I have been playing this song in bars for about two years. In the past, I have struggled in relationships, but it made me stronger as a writer.
This is just the beginning of my career, and I have more songs coming that might make you jump out of your chair.
Music has been the biggest part of my life and this girl isn’t slowing down.
I just want my fans to know that I’m working hard, and I’m excited to share these stories, from the bottom of my heart.
Listen To “Heart Broke In A Bar”
Tour Dates
Connect With Lauren Rismiller
https://www.laurenrismiller.com
https://www.facebook.com/laurenris
https://www.instagram.com/laurenris
https://linktr.ee/LaurenRismillerMusic
Photos: Andy Evinger
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