Ryleigh Madison moving on to “Duet Week”.
Viewers in Columbus County were excited to find out that one of Whiteville’s own is going to Hollywood after auditioning for American Idol. Ryleigh Bunch (Ryleigh Madison) may be known to the world as a performer, but there’s much more to the hometown sweetheart than just a pretty face and surprising voice.
Music has always been a big part of her life. Bunch started singing at Abundant Life Assembly of God at the tender age of 3 years old. She continues to do so at Hope Church in Tabor City. She said she always knew singing is what she wanted to do. Most children change their minds about their career path as time goes by, but Bunch decided early on, around 8 years old, that music was it for her.
“That was the age I just knew singing was what I wanted to do with my life,” said Bunch.
The South Columbus High School sophomore is a natural talent. She’s never had any formal voice lessons, but she and her uncle, Dustin Chapman, have always sang together in the car or at their homes.
Lately, the two have been invited to perform at different venues all over the state, and have recently released a country music single “Family Thing.” The song has received airtime all over the United States, and the pair hope to complete an full album one day.
Her musical influences are Patsy Cline and Dolly Parton, among others. On the Columbus Connection podcast, Bunch said she likes music that “anyone can relate to.
“The classic country songs appeal to everyone,” she said. “There’s always something there that anyone can understand.”
Bunch doesn’t have much free time, but what time she does have she devotes to extracurricular activities at school. She’s a section leader on the SCHS choir, a member of the Stallionettes, and she’s in the Beta Club. At home she writes music, plays guitar, and spends time with her family. She supports many charity organizations, but the nearest and dearest to her heart is the Special Olympics and cancer research groups. Bunch’s little brother is autistic, and two of her grandparents were diagnosed with different forms of cancer.
She plans to continue her education after high school. The 16-year-old dreams of attending Belmont College in Nashville, Tenn., and earning a degree in Music Business. She has a huge support system standing behind her.
“I’m thankful for anyone who has ever believed in me, or pushed or encouraged me,” said the teenager.
She said she is grateful for the love of her family, and she has wonderful friends who keep her grounded. Bunch said her catch phrase is “Bless your heart” just like her Mee-Maw.
