Best friends and sisters Robyn and Ryleigh Gillespie hail from Langley, British Columbia, where country roots run deep. The pair, now 21 and 18 respectively, radiate a down‑home charm that leaks into every note they sing, blending traditional storytelling with a modern pop‑rock edge.
Their sound blends country, pop and rock to tell stories about love, fun and everyday life. They’ve already released an EP and have taken the stage at the 2010 Olympic Celebration and the BC Country Music Awards, earning two BCCMA nominations. Now they are gearing up for the release of their debut album, Robyn and Ryleigh, slated for July 17.
THE MAG sat down with the sisters to talk about the new album, the very different personalities they bring to the music, and the challenges of bullying.
Congratulations on your first album. How does it feel as the release date draws near?
Ryleigh: We are buzzing. We’ve waited a long time. Years went into writing and recording, and July 17 is finally in sight.
What is your favorite track on the album?
Ryleigh: Summer Girl stands out. It was initially meant for Robyn to sing the whole track, but after listening, she said I should record it because my voice fits the vibe better, while Robyn brings a raspier edge.
Robyn: If forced to pick one, Perfect Date is high on the list. It’s upbeat, playful, and it captures the carefree spirit they love—especially the chorus about big trucks and a good night out.
Robyn wrote several songs on the album, including Mr. Perfect, Perfect Date and Summer Girl. Where do these inspirations come from?
Robyn: Real life events drive the writing—memories, wishes, dreams, friends, love and heartbreak fuel the melodies.
How did both sisters fall in love with music?
Ryleigh: Their journey began in elementary school, with a choir and school performances fueling their passion. Family support kept them going, and Robyn learned the ukulele before teaching herself guitar, often learning by ear.
You both faced bullying and loneliness in high school. How did music help you cope with those difficult moments?
Robyn: Music was an outlet—writing songs, playing guitar and singing. If sadness struck, she would grab the guitar and sing, finding relief in the sound.
Do you have any advice on coping with bullying?
Ryleigh: It varies by person. She found belonging in the music room or even left school for lunch to escape negativity.
Robyn: And telling someone matters. It won’t come back to haunt you; sharing the burden can make it easier, plus finding a creative outlet helps.
As sisters, you spend a lot of time together. Are your personalities similar or different?
Ryleigh: We’re quite different. People who know us can tell the difference in an instant.
So how would you describe your own personalities?
Robyn: Outgoing, but sometimes shy, artsy and happy.
Ryleigh: Outgoing as well, funny, not shy at all, happy and cheeky. I’m super cheeky.
Since your personalities are so different, are your music tastes different as well?
Robyn: I’ve always written about love and heartbreak. Some of it is fun, or a little raunchy. But when I started writing with Ryleigh, she brought in a rock vibe and a revenge‑type edge. Ryleigh listens to 80s music, while I lean toward country. I actually listen to all kinds, and I love what Ryleigh writes too.
When you’re not busy working, what do you like to do in your free time?
Ryleigh: I like working out. This might sound odd, but I love animals, so I’ll approach any friendly one I see. I also enjoy movies and spending time with friends and family.
Robyn: I enjoy camping, running, road trips and hanging out with close friends. And songwriting, of course!
You have both performed at a variety of events. Do you prefer big or small audiences?
Ryleigh: There’s a big difference. A big crowd creates a different energy and a thrilling atmosphere, while smaller venues feel more intimate. Bigger stages are more nerve‑racking, but a smaller crowd isn’t always easier; if you say something odd, you’ll know right away, though in a larger crowd they might not even hear you.
If you were given the chance to perform with any artist on stage, who would it be and what song would you choose?
Ryleigh: A collaboration with Keith Urban would be amazing.
Robyn: I recently saw Florida Georgia Line live and those guys are talented. It would be incredible to share a stage with them and sing their hit Cruise, or perform one of our songs like Perfect Date.
On top of your album’s release, what else is coming up?
Robyn: They have a Canada Day show at McLeod Athletic Park, perform across interior British Columbia and head to the United States. They’ll showcase in Edmonton for the CCMAs and plan a September trip to Nashville. Country music central, here they come.
Thank you, Robyn and Ryleigh. Be sure to grab a copy of Robyn and Ryleigh on July 17.
Images courtesy of Karolina Turek