What Is Popular Is Not Always Right. What Is Right Is Not Always Popular - Riana Nelson
Derik Nelson & Family is a sibling trio that is making a lasting mark in the music scene, both across the U.S. and around the world. Originally from the Pacific Northwest, Derik, Riana, and Dalten are talented artists who dedicate themselves to not only their musical craft, but also mentoring and educating students through outreach programs. Derik Nelson & Family’s musical style is a tasteful blend of folk and pop, and their songs are rooted primarily in themes of family, home, and the nature of the Pacific Northwest. The siblings have traveled to over 100+ cities across the U.S. and were recently selected as U.S. Cultural Ambassadors to facilitate cultural understanding and tolerance through music. In fact, one of their stops as Cultural Ambassadors was at America House Kyiv in January 2020, where they led an interactive Creative Music Incubator over the course of four days.
During the course of the program, students received guidance and instruction from Derik and his siblings and each participant performed his/her own original song in front of a live audience at the program’s end!
America House Kyiv feels honored to have hosted Derik Nelson & Family, and we are equally excited to share an interview that VSFS eIntern Bianca Navia conducted with Riana Nelson.
In addition to being a member of Derik Nelson & Family, Riana dedicates her time to a number of other artistic interests, such as drawing, painting, calligraphy, marketing, and writing. She is passionate about empowering others, especially women, and taking time to focus on self-love and acceptance.
We hope you’ll take something away from Riana’s thoughtful, honest answers.
Bianca: In 1-2 sentences, describe who you are and what you do.
Riana: I’m Riana, I’m a professional touring singer and Cultural Ambassador for the United States of America (alongside my two brothers) as the vocal harmony sibling trio “Derik Nelson & Family.” I inspire, teach, and entertain people from all over the world through my visual art, writing, and my singing voice!
Bianca: In addition to singing with your two brothers in Derik Nelson & Family, you’re also an incredible artist. When you’re sitting down to create an art piece, what is your artistic process like? From where do you draw your inspiration? When do you feel the most creative?
Riana: Thank you! I love art in nearly any and every form. It’s been a creative outlet of mine from when I was a very small child— as soon as I could hold a pen! My artistic mediums of choice vary widely now, but I especially love pointed pen calligraphy, watercolor, metallics, and ink drawings—and combining all of those together.
I have a very whimsical style, and I think it comes from viewing the world in a very curious way. I seek out cute, comforting, and cozy things in my life, I’m fascinated by nature, I love animals and the changing of the seasons, and I think I like making art that reflects ALL of that. Inspiration comes to me in different ways. One tool that’s helped me explore my art style more freely is an LED light pad (click here for a photo.) I can layer ideas and illustrations, and it helps with layout before committing something in ink. Journaling about the “mood” I want to create with various adjectives helps me early on in a project, and then I look for visual inspiration through thought-provoking abstract photography, repeating patterns or wallpapers, nature, or textiles. I’m not a textile artist or seamstress, but often, looking at a modern quilt, textile art, or fabric swatches on Pinterest is enough to ignite a little idea for an otter drawing, painting a little fox in a field, or a calligraphed word or phrase that comes to me. Also, let it be known: I’m truly alive when I get to enjoy unique culinary experiences and great food while traveling. The key to my romantic and creative heart is totally through fantastic snacks and an amazing meal! I feel most creatively alert in early mornings when I don’t have firm plans later in the day, when I’ve JUST cleaned off my desk, or when I’m traveling. The idea of blank space and the thought that “anything” can happen with open possibility often sparks new ideas or motivation for me quickly.
Bianca: Tell us about the most meaningful collaboration Derik Nelson & Family did.
Riana: I’m proud to say we’ve had so many incredible, meaningful, and lasting impressions of collaborations through teaching and mentoring over the last few years of touring professionally to well over 150 cities in the U.S. and abroad. We’ve worked with 9 year olds in California teaching songwriting, sang our own original music with an Albanian young women’s choir in Tirana, Albania, and inspired little kids through my puppet work (Hairy Gary the Baby Bigfoot) in elementary school collaborations, too.
However, our most recent and dynamic success was teaching our Creative Music Incubator at America House Kyiv! We will not forget it— it was an unbelievable transformation every hour of the program across four days. We witnessed students learn, absorb, contemplate, and brainstorm on the topic of songwriting, and then they each generated beautiful fragments of lyrics, and within about 48 hours, each student delivered and performed their own full fledged pop song. It was a life changing experience to see it unfold firsthand, and our live audience at the final showcase performance was equally blown away! I credit Derik with a lot of the quick turnaround of these songs, because he’s got a really beautiful method to building up camaraderie of the students while holding them accountable lovingly, too— he’s a brilliant and gifted mentor, capable of offering the right analogies and examples that really help anyone dive deep into their creative heart.
At the end of the day however, it was our students who showed up 100%, and trusted us with the very challenging task to each write a song in English in just a couple days. That amount of trust, commitment, and courage from our students is so deeply inspiring to me!
Bianca: Which song do you feel proudest of that you and your brothers have written?
Riana: “Three Deep Breaths” is a song that we wrote together, with Derik in the “driver’s seat” of the writing process. It’s an anthem for us as a sibling trio, and performing that song is how we typically begin every concert no matter where we are in the world. The chorus lyrics are: “Everything’s gonna be alright, let go of the troubles on your mind. It only takes three deep breaths, and a beat in your chest, to know that you’ll start over again.” The lyrics for Three Deep Breaths (and what it stands for) is like our sibling code, our ethos… our spirit as human beings. We love sharing that song with people.
Bianca: Do you have a memory that stood out for you from your time at the music incubator at America House Kyiv?
Riana: I’m so very proud of each one of our students’ progress and performance in our incubator. I know what it takes to be vulnerable and “deep dive” into your brain and heart to dig out lyrics and music themes that match your emotional self and who you are. There’s a shedding of the self that has to accompany intense creative work. That’s always really vulnerable as an artist, no matter how many songs you’ve written, how many people you’ve performed for in the past, or how many art pieces you’ve created! I really respect that process, so every moment where I saw one of our students overcome that little block of fear, doubt, or self-sabotage and RISE up to the challenge really brought me to a place of pride. I was really emotional in the days that followed that incubator, because it was indeed a very emotional process for all of us! I’ll never forget the way I felt so PROUD of each one of them, and their song performances with everyone cheering and applauding for them!
Bianca: Oftentimes in the artistic industry, there is a lot of rejection. How do you come to terms with it?
Riana: Oh gosh. Yes. Rejection is really common in any industry, but, especially in the artistic and performing industries, we spend a lot of time developing a “thick skin” to the words “NO” and “SORRY, NOT RIGHT NOW.” One thing I’m getting better at is reminding myself to seek out the lessons or silver linings any time an opportunity, contract, or meeting doesn’t go the way I hoped it would. I place high expectations on myself and others, so this is sometimes a big challenge for me if I get really disappointed. For me personally in my life, I’ve seen a few examples where the idea that “rejection is God’s protection” really stands true— meaning: there’s a reason why relationships, dates, projects, or work opportunities you are rejected from weren’t destined for you, or not at this time, and that’s okay. When things take a sharp detour or pivot 180 degrees when you weren’t expecting it means the Universe is guiding you to something else for your own protection and ultimate benefit. This has taken me a lot of practice to accept.
Another thing I’ve learned through being rejected is: something else positive is ALWAYS coming! I believe there are infinite possibilities for artistic and creative people to make an impact, to make income, to be successful. Just because you’re rejected by one company, person, or project doesn’t mean that’s the end of the road! That’s just the beginning to exploring what other “trails” are available to reach the goals you desire. Don’t give up at the first little pot hole or speed bump!
Bianca: Tell us about an influential mentor you have had/have. What qualities make a good mentor?
Riana: I have a few trusted teachers that come to mind, both from high school and college, who’ve really inspired me through their methods. They show up as themselves, without apology, and they always have creative projects they’re working on in their own lives, in addition to teaching. They’re compassionate, they’re open-minded, and they’re direct. I think these elements of “walking the walk” (and not just “talking the talk”) are essential characteristics to describe an awesome mentor. As I myself move into more mentorship and coaching opportunities, I want to be known as “compassionately forward:” not being afraid to say what I really mean, but in a kind and loving way.
Bianca: Who is your role model?
Riana: I have many role models who are ever changing and evolving! Currently, Oprah Winfrey is a huge inspiration to me in many facets of life, including spirituality and business. (I love her Super Soul Sessions podcast, and listen to it all the time!) Marie Forleo is an amazing entrepreneur and human, and she gives amazing business advice. I love Elizabeth Gilbert’s writing, and how she so bravely and authentically shows up in the world. Rachel Hollis is another woman who shows up unapologetically, and that’s really inspiring to me! Basically, I admire and seek inspiration from anyone, male or female, who has imperfectly but courageously shown up in their relationships and the world to make a positive change and be vulnerable in the process. I think that aspect of overcoming personal or emotional fear to connect with who you truly are--that’s what I deeply aspire to on a daily basis...and sometimes fail miserably at, but I practice this daily, nonetheless!
Bianca: What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
Riana: Wow, there are so many people who have given me amazing advice. One that stands out from childhood is the quote: “What is popular is not always right. What is right is not always popular.” My 5th grade teacher, Mr. Casey, took me out in the elementary school hallway one day and showed me that motivational poster with that quote after I’d been struggling to feel like I “fit in” with the popular girls. All through high school, I had to remind myself of this quote, because I never felt like I fit in. I never played sports, I felt artistically unique because I was always doing plays, musicals, and involved in some kind of art project, but all in a deeply insecure way. This feeling lasted all the way into my mid-twenties, honestly. It wasn’t until I made a very untraditional and impulsive decision to take a summer job in Beijing, China when I started to unravel and release many of these insecurities. The reminder of this quote throughout my life has led me to many points where I chose the less popular opinion in favor of what I knew was right FOR ME. In relationships, in business, in friendships. I am where I am today because I have learned how to trust myself and what’s right for me. So, I’m going to make a bold statement that it might be one of the best pieces of early advice I ever received.
Bianca: Tell us about a pivotal moment in your career.
Riana: A pivotal moment in our career as a sibling trio was applying together for the American Music Abroad program with the U.S. Department of State. In February 2018, we got the notice that we were selected for the live round of auditions, then interviewed in front of a panel in San Francisco after preparing extensively (spoiler alert: it was one of the most high pressure auditions we’ve ever had!) and then, a few weeks later, we got the news: we’d been selected as one of a handful of bands to travel abroad in 2018 as Cultural Ambassadors for the U.S.A.! Since then, we’ve had several more international opportunities, including our contract with Arts Envoy to travel to Ukraine, and upcoming tours to Egypt and Eritrea.
Bianca: How do you keep the momentum going in your career? How do you tackle “slow times” or times when you’re just not feeling motivated?
Riana: To be honest with you, I’m still figuring this out! One project that’s been on my heart for a long time, and I’m finally committing to as of this week is finishing the first draft manuscript for my debut BOOK! More info coming on this and what this looks like, but I just hired a writing coach, and I’m committed. In the past few years we’ve toured so much I haven’t dedicated my time or effort to anything other than moving sibling trio projects forward, so this is a huge departure for me to focus on my book and it feels really good to dive a little deeper into RIANA, and who I am as a creative human in this world, and what I have to share and say to make an impact. Overall, because I’m a very emotional person, and definitely classify as an empath, I require a lot of space, quiet, and down time to recharge. This looks like cooking, walks in nature, yoga, watching documentaries, journaling, art, cleaning, and meeting friends one-on-one for in depth conversations (instead of in larger parties or groups.) I have been open on social media that I’ve struggled with depression and anxiety in the past, and it’s an ongoing effort to keep my spiritual and emotional tool kit “well stocked” so that I can fully show up in my career with a full “emotional cup.” I think this has held me back from stepping into my true potential. Health is the true measure of wealth, so “slow times” for me actually looks like necessary and critical time to nurture and nourish myself in between tours.
Bianca: How would you define “success?”
Riana: First off, I think the definition of success is a very subjective opinion, and ever-evolving depending on the individual. I really believe there’s no “right” or “wrong” to someone’s version of what success looks like to them. Ideal success in my career looks like having the financial, emotional and time bandwidth to prioritize my health, exercise, relationships, and creative projects all while being completely committed to executing each step of my goals and serving my friends and community generously. The next steps in my career are going to be focused on fulfilling my emotional AND financial “cups”. One personal area of my life that I really would like to see bloom (that hasn’t while I’ve focused on my career and self-development) is meeting an incredibly compassionate, creative, kind, romantic, driven and intelligent man, so I can share my awesome life with someone who has an equally awesome life!
Bianca: Can you share one of your biggest fears as an artist? How do you continue to challenge yourself and make sure your fears don’t hold you back?
Riana: As artists, I believe we don’t always have the luxury of separating our personas from our work, especially if we’re doing projects that are deeply connected to who we are at our core. It is normal to have fears about being seen, and a general fear of being vulnerable. So, one of my biggest fears as an artist is also one of my biggest fears as a human, which is: I fear being rejected, simply for being who I am.
One of the ways I’m challenging myself to overcome this daily is to remind myself that by showing up as who I am will empower OTHERS to show up as the truest version of themselves, too. (What a gift to the world, to have more humans being their real selves, right?!) When I’m super aligned with who I am at my core, I don’t have to worry or fear about judgment or criticism from others. It’s a bit of a “take me or leave me” approach in my mindset, and that’s been a huge shift and catalyst for making sure I’m not holding MYSELF back from being open and vulnerable. We have to practice feeling the fear, and doing it anyway! Let’s do it together.
Bianca: What are some upcoming projects you have in the works?
Riana: We have some upcoming concerts in North Carolina, Iowa, and Indiana. At the end of March, I’ll be traveling to multiple cities across the U.S. to adjudicate live auditions and in-person interviews as I work with the U.S. State Department as their female judge on the panel to select next year’s round of Cultural Ambassadors! Then, Derik, Dalten, and I travel to Egypt and Eritrea in Africa to perform and teach through the American Music Abroad program, as Cultural Ambassadors ourselves. It’s going to be an absolutely beautiful spring season for music, inspiration, family, and meaningful travel in my life.
Bianca: And, lastly, what was the last post you liked on social media?
Riana: Oooh! Great question! I’m not kidding, it was my brother Derik’s post today on Instagram: @deriknelson — he wrote about gathering inspiration from nature to generate ideas for songwriting. I’m active each day on Instagram @riananelson where I’m posting my travel experiences, photos daily, lots of ig stories, and inspiring people around the world to be true to themselves, and would encourage anyone reading this to come say hi and connect with me there. I read every comment and message!
If you would like to reach out to Riana, you can find her at http://www.riananelson.com/ or on Instagram (@riananelson).
*******
The Creative Music Incubator was a rousing success, highlighting the importance of art ambassadorship and its ability to bridge gaps and further cross-cultural communication. Through the arts, students have the ability to express and challenge themselves artistically without the fear of being judged. They can tap into their unique ideas and benefit and grow from the mentorship of those well-established in their fields, such as Derik Nelson & Family. Art ambassador programs are a crucial link to encouraging students around the globe to find a creative outlet while also making the big wide world we live in feel a little bit smaller through personal connections and relationships.
Vocabulary:
Outlet (n.): an opening or a way to express one’s creativity
Whimsical (adj.): playful
Cozy (adj.): warm, inviting, familiar
Thought-provoking (adj.): requiring one to think deeply
Seamstress (n.): a person who sews
Swatches (n.): small pieces of cloth
Ignite (v.): to set on fire (literally). To inspire, motivate (figuratively)
Dynamic (adj.): powerful
Absorb (v.): to pay close attention to something and learn about it
Contemplate (v.): to think deeply about
Unfold (v.): to reveal
Blown away (expression): shocked, surprised
Camaraderie (n.): friendship
Anthem (n.): special, personal song
Ethos (n.): most important aspect of an individual or group
Shedding (v.): to fall off
Self-sabotage (v.): to let oneself down
Thick-skin (n.): a person who is not easily hurt by criticism or rejection
Silver linings (n.): positive, optimistic moments
Potholes (n.): holes in the road that are not filled with cement
Impulsive (v.): without thinking
Unravel (v.): to take apart, undo
Manuscript (n.): a writing draft
Empath (n.): sensitive to others
Nurture (v.): to support or encourage
Nourish (v.): to make stronger
Bandwidth (n.): ability to handle or think about more than one thing at the same time
Bloom (v.): to grow, flourish, thrive
Aligned (v.): to be in agreement with; to be on the same page
Adjudicate (v.): to judge (in a competition)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
A Texas native, Bianca Navia is currently in her junior year at Arizona State University, pursuing a dual major in Political Science and Global Studies. She is most passionate about international affairs, diplomacy, foreign languages, traveling, and teaching. A fun fact about her? She’s the oldest of four sisters in a big Cuban-Italian-American family!