Rae Boyd builds her next musical chapter after ‘American Idol’

Rae Boyd is moving from performing familiar songs for a national television audience to creating music of her own.

The 2019 Walkersville High School graduate told The Frederick News-Post she is writing original songs, collaborating with musicians and developing a new band following her run on “American Idol.”

Boyd reached the Top 11 before being eliminated April 13. Nearly six months later, she described songwriting as both a new professional direction and a way to process an experience that took a mental and physical toll.

“It’s honestly been so healing to write,” Boyd told the newspaper.

Her focus now is on making music that reflects her own interests. She remains independent, without a record label or contract, and has not announced many details about the project. Although she suggested listeners could see something soon, the supplied report includes no release date or band name.

The next chapter builds on a musical foundation developed in Walkersville classrooms and school productions.

Louise VanGilder-Martin, who teaches theater arts, choir, piano and film studies at Walkersville High School, first worked with Boyd when she auditioned as a freshman for “The Little Mermaid.” Boyd won the role of Ariel and later played the Witch in “Into the Woods” during her senior year.

VanGilder-Martin recalled a student with natural ability who was also willing to listen to criticism and work on improving. Boyd credited her former teacher’s demanding approach with helping her develop as a vocalist and performer.

Years later, a producer discovered Boyd, leading to her appearance on “American Idol.” Her competition performances included Aretha Franklin’s “Respect” and Patty Griffin’s “Up to the Mountain,” before a save from judge Lionel Richie helped her reach the Top 11.

For VanGilder-Martin, Boyd’s journey now offers an example to students learning in the same classrooms. For Boyd, the next goal is establishing a musical identity beyond the competition.