Did Riley Green Serve in the Military?
Riley Green, the American country music singer-songwriter, has risen to fame with his raw, emotive voice and relatable lyrics. But, besides his music, fans and critics alike have been wondering about his background, specifically whether he served in the military. In this article, we’ll delve into the facts and answer this question once and for all.
Who is Riley Green?
Before diving into his military service (or lack thereof), it’s essential to know a bit about Riley Green. Born on August 18, 1992, in Jacksonville, Alabama, Green grew up surrounded by music. His grandfather was a country music singer, and his father was a musician himself. Green started writing songs at a young age and began performing locally in his teenage years. After high school, he pursued a degree in music industry management at Auburn University but eventually dropped out to focus on his music career.
Riley Green’s Music Career
Green’s music career took off with the release of his debut single, "There Was This Girl," in 2018. The song resonated with fans and led to a record deal with Big Machine Label Group (now part of Universal Music Group). He released his debut album, "Different ‘Round Here," in 2019, which topped the Billboard Country Albums chart. Green’s subsequent albums, "If It Wasn’t for You" (2020) and "Running Out of Moonlight" (2021), solidified his status as a rising star in the country music scene.
Did Riley Green Serve in the Military?
Now, let’s address the question that sparked curiosity: Did Riley Green serve in the military? Unfortunately, the answer is no. In a 2019 interview with Whiskey Riff, Green revealed that he did not serve in the military, stating:
"I was getting ready to go to the National Guard, but I hurt my knee, and they wouldn’t let me join. So, I kind of just went back home and started playing music, and it just kind of took off."
This lack of military service doesn’t diminish Green’s accomplishments or fan base. His music is a testament to his songwriting skills and emotional range, which resonate with fans worldwide.
Comparison with Other Country Artists
Country music is often associated with patriotism and military service, with many artists proudly displaying their military backgrounds. Riley Green’s lack of service is not unique; in fact, many country stars have never served in the military. Here’s a brief comparison with some prominent country artists:
| Country Artist | Military Service |
|---|---|
| Luke Bryan | Honorable discharge from the Navy |
| Dierks Bentley | Served 4 years in the US Army |
| Jason Aldean | Served 4 years in the US Army |
| Riley Green | No military service |
As you can see, there’s no shame in not serving in the military; many country artists have dedicated their lives to music rather than military service.
Conclusion
Riley Green’s music career has blossomed without the need for military service. His honesty about not serving in the military is refreshing, highlighting the importance of pursuing one’s passions, regardless of the path taken. We can continue to enjoy Green’s music, knowing that his experiences and emotions inform his songwriting, shaping the country music landscape in the process.
Recommended Reading
- Riley Green’s official website: https://www.rileylgreen.com/
- Whiskey Riff Interview: <https://whiskeyriff.com/interview-riley-green-shares-his-journey-from– small-town-boy-to-country-music-star/>
