Songstress Vera Riley to Release Highly Anticipated Single “Thanks” Featuring Jalen Bell.

Courtesy Photo: Vera Riley

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EAST LANSING, MI — Gospel artist Vera Riley is thrilled to announce the upcoming release of the highly anticipated new single, "Thanks!," scheduled to debut across all major digital streaming platforms on July 24th. The track

serves as a vibrant anthem of gratitude, celebrating God's goodness and abundant blessings. Penned by Riley herself, the song represents a significant milestone in her musical career. She co-produced the single alongside the talented production team of Robert Pierson and DeShawn "Spoon" Witherspoon of Roel Sounds.

This collaboration is deeply rooted in a shared family history of faith, fellowship, and professional excellence. Growing up, Riley and Pierson shared deep connections within the church community; their relatives served as pastors, and their respective churches frequently came together in fellowship, allowing them to sing and praise together from

childhood. Today, that lifelong bond continues to influence their professional endeavors. Riley and Pierson currently collaborate in the music department of a local church, where Riley serves weekly as a guest worship leader.

Reflecting on the creative journey and the synergy of the production team, Riley shares: "I initially envisioned the song with a traditional quartet vibe, but I was reluctant to share it with Robert at first due to his extensive background in the quartet genre. I kept downplaying it, thinking of it as just a 'filler' song. However, during one

of our production sessions, Robert and Spoon took hold of the track and elevated it into an absolute masterpiece."

In an effort to enhance the arrangement, Riley reached out to the esteemed minister of music, William Crenshaw. Initially hoping he would contribute his own vocals to the project, Crenshaw said that for an authentic quartet sound, she should consider Jalen Bell. Without delay, he texted her, "He's expecting your call." Upon connecting with Bell, Riley had a profound realization: Bell was the nephew of the late Linda Adams, a singer who had been part of one of the worship teams Riley leads. "Your Auntie Linda always told me I needed to hear her nephew—that he was

talented," Riley recounted to Bell. "I believe this project would bring her joy." The two met at the Platinum Keyz Studio in Lansing, where they dedicated the session to crafting a soulful, spirit-led performance that they hope will

honor God.

The upcoming release of "Thanks!" on July 24th serves as a poignant tribute to Vera’s mother, coinciding beautifully with her birthday. This date represents far more than a strategic launch; it is a heartfelt homage to the

woman who first nurtured Vera’s musical spirit. Reflecting on her childhood, Vera fondly recalls the intimate moments spent resting on her mother’s lap as she played the piano in various churches. “I was too shy to sing in public, but

Mom constantly encouraged me," Vera shares. "Some of that encouragement came in the form of that classic, side-eye 'momma look' that said, 'you better sing,' or a gentle tap on the behind. My mom, my older sister

Terra, and I would practice all the songs she rehearsed with her choirs at home. That is how I learned parts and how to harmonize."

Beyond the technical training, Vera emphasizes that her mother’s greatest gift was spiritual guidance. "While I thank mom for music, most of all, I thank her for introducing me to the God she serves the true, living God! I've tried Him, I've seen Him work in my life; that's why it is so easy to say as the lyrics in the song proclaim, 'Thanks, You've been a good God!'" This single serves as a heartfelt testimony, bridging the gap between personal gratitude and universal worship, inviting listeners to reflect on their own blessings as they experience the soulful, resonant delivery of Riley’s latest gospel offering. As the release date approaches, Riley hopes the song will resonate as a powerful anthem of faith and appreciation, echoing the legacy of love and devotion passed down through generations.

For promo copies, interview requests, or further information, please contact Vera at vera4msu@gmail.com. Follow Vera Riley on her official website at www.iamverariley.com and on her social media channels for updates leading up to the July 24th release.