The Inner Views of Emily Ann Roberts

"Be strong and courageous; do not be afraid or discouraged; for the Lord, your God is with you wherever you go."

Joshua 1:9

We recently had the special opportunity of meeting the sweet 19-year-old young lady I am interviewing today.

I can tell you that she is as friendly, down-to-earth, and kind as she seems during her concerts.
You may remember her from "The Voice" Season Nine.

I know you will be greatly blessed by her presence here and hope you enjoy getting to know her better!

The 

of 

"The Voice" Season Nine Runner-up Contestant,

Emily Ann Roberts.

Cheryl:  Please introduce yourself and tell us who you are. 

Emily Ann:  Hi! My name is Emily Ann Roberts. I am 19 years old, and I’m pursuing a career in music. I’ve been singing as long as I can remember and truly believe God created me to encourage others through music. I grew up Knoxville, Tennessee and living so close to the Smoky Mountains really influenced my style as an artist. I first started singing in church and then singing in the choir at my middle school. I started playing guitar in the 7th grade and auditioned for the talent show at my school singing a song called “All Your Life” by The Band Perry and won. Winning the talent show gave me some confidence to enter more competitions around town and start playing gigs at restaurants in Knoxville. Fast forward to my sophomore year of high school, I got an email from a casting producer with NBC’s "The Voice", who found me singing a Carrie Underwood song called, “Something In The Water” on YouTube. The Lord opened every door, and one thing led to another, and I finished Runner-up on season 9 of NBC’s "The Voice!" Since my time on the show, I graduated high school and have been working in Nashville writing music for my upcoming country project. I also recorded my first album in August 2017 which is a Christian project named “Bigger Than Me.”

Cheryl:  We would love to hear about your Christian testimony.  How old were you when you became a Christian?  Were you raised in a Christian home?  

Emily Ann:   I was so blessed to be raised in a Christian home. My mom and dad took me and my sister to church every Sunday and are very strong in their faith. I was in elementary school when I really started thinking about salvation and giving my heart to Jesus. I knew I was a sinner and I knew without asking Him into my life I would spend eternity separated from Him. I was so convicted and knew I needed Him in my life, so in December, when I was in the 3rd grade, I prayed with my parents and asked Jesus to be my Lord and Savior!

Cheryl:  Who has most impacted your walk with Jesus?  Who has mentored you, influenced you, and prayed for you most?

Emily Ann:  My Mom has been my biggest influence/mentor in my Christian walk. She prays for me daily and has the sweetest heart for people. My mom just has the perfect way of encouraging me and giving Godly wisdom/advice when I need it most. 

Cheryl:  What about that person do you most long to emulate?

Emily Ann:  I love how patient and kind my mom is. She is always thinking of how she could help/encourage someone else, and she is always putting others before herself. I hope to be just like her one day. 

Cheryl:  What is your first singing memory?

Emily Ann:  My first singing memory is riding around in a car seat with my family singing every word to Ricky Skaggs' “Soldier of the Cross” album.

Cheryl:  When did you realize that God has gifted you to sing and that He wanted you to pursue that gift as a career?

Emily Ann:  I don’t think it hit me all of the sudden, but with little things that happened along the way, I became very confident that God had created me to sing. It took me a while to quit overthinking/doubting myself as a singer/artist, but when I finally realized it isn’t all about me and my abilities, but about being obedient to the Lord and confident in the gift God placed inside of me, I became sure that this was what I’m meant to do. The Lord opening up the door to be on "The Voice" was also a huge sign that this was what He created me to do. The doors since then have just flown open.

Cheryl:  Tell us about your life before and your journey to being a participant on "The Voice."

Emily Ann:  I sang a lot in Church and around Knoxville in competitions and restaurants before my time on "The Voice." My dad would record videos of me and post them on YouTube, and we never thought anything about it. A casting producer from the TV show saw me singing on YouTube and invited me to come to a callback audition in Atlanta, GA. I never particularly wanted to be on a singing competition show, but since the opportunity fell in my lap I knew I had to at least go audition, and I’m so thankful I did.

Cheryl:  What was the whole experience of being on "The Voice" like for you?

Emily Ann:  I cannot say enough good things about my time on "The Voice." The production staff, wardrobe team, hair and makeup artists, camera crew, band, drivers, and the coaches were all so amazing to work with. I most enjoyed getting to know the other contestants on the show with me. We went through a crazy life-changing experience together, and we became family during those months working on the show. I learned so much and was so inspired by the other contestants. Not only were the people great, but the show encouraged me to do things that used to scare me and to step out of my comfort zone. it really made me step out of the “box” I had put myself in.

Emily Ann & Ricky Skaggs performing together on "The Voice"

Cheryl:  What are some of your most memorable moments during your time on "The Voice?"

Emily Ann:  Honestly some of my favorite times were spent back at the hotel singing songs with the other contestants. We would have “jam sessions” at night where we would just pass the guitar around and sing together. I remember being so overwhelmed and amazed at the talent that was sitting around me. It was so inspiring. Also working with Blake Shelton was amazing. He is so down to earth and normal. He encouraged me so much and truly helped me come out of my shell. Also, he was always just so fun to be around.

Blake Shelton & Emily Ann performing together on "The Voice"

Cheryl:  How did your faith in God and your Christian walk influence and factor into your decisions and conduct while being a participant on "The Voice?"

Emily Ann:  My faith was the one thing that got me through my time on "The Voice." It was a lot of change and pressure on me as a 16-year-old. It was truly an amazing opportunity, that I wouldn’t trade for anything, but there were a lot of long days and homesick nights. But I knew the Lord had brought me to the show and that he was opening all the doors, so I held tight to the promise that he had good plans for it. I also wanted more than anything to be able to sing a gospel song on the show because I wanted to use the platform the Lord gave me to glorify Him. Thankfully, I was able to sing one of my most favorite gospel songs, “In The Garden,” during the live playoffs. It was amazing to hear stories of how that song touched peoples hearts. I’m still so amazed that God can use someone like me to encourage others and lift the name of Christ.

In The Garden ~ Emily Ann Roberts

Cheryl:  What opportunities have opened up for you as a result of your being on "The Voice?"  How has life changed for you? 

Emily Ann:  Blake Shelton introduced me to his management company in Nashville, and I have been working with the team there since I got home from the show. I am so thankful to Blake for making that connection for me. There have been so many amazing opportunities I’ve had since my time on the show. I was able to sing at a Salvation Army Gala in New York City, do the half-time show at Neyland Stadium to honor Pat Summit, make my Grand Ole Opry debut, and play countless shows that have blessed my heart so much. My favorite part of what I get to do is connecting with the people who come to my events. I love hearing their stories and being able to connect with them through music. Another door that opened from "The Voice" is working with Abraham Productions and Ray Flynn Ministries. Ray Flynn saw me singing “In The Garden” on "The Voice" and reached out to have me sing at one of his events. I have been working with him ever since and I’m so grateful to work with him. Ray was the executive producer on my first album “Bigger Than Me,” and without him, I wouldn’t have been able to make the record. 

As far as life-changing, the main things that are different are how busy I am and people recognizing me out places. When I first got home from the show, it was a huge shock how many people recognized me and wanted pictures and autographs. I was in such a bubble out in L.A., and I was so busy doing the show that we never watched the show. It was crazy when It fully sank in that I had been in peoples living rooms on their TVs for months.

Cheryl:  What are your dreams going forward?  

Emily Ann:  My biggest dream going forward is getting my country music done and released! I have been working so hard on it for so long, and I cannot wait to share it with everyone. My prayer is that it touches hearts and encourages and empowers every person who hears it. I want my music to inspire little girls who want to be a country music artist one day the way so many albums inspired me growing up. 

Emily Ann with her parents, Tommy & Kelly Roberts, the night of her Grand Ole Opry debut

Emily Ann performing at the Grand Ole Opry

Cheryl:  How is God working in your life right now?  How is He leading you? 

Emily Ann:  God is showing me in this season of life to take one day at a time. I have to daily surrender my life and path to Him knowing that His plan and timing is far better than anything I could come up with. I’m a fixer, and I am not very patient, but the Lord is showing me that some of the sweetest times are in the unknown seasons of life. when I do not know what the next step is or what tomorrow will look like. It is so sweet to know that God has specific plans for each of our lives, and He loves us and cares for us. 

Cheryl:  Who lays most heavily upon your heart?  Who do you most long to reach through your music? 

Emily Ann:  I would love for my music to reach everyone and encourage all ages of people, but most of all, I would love to make an impact on young people. Middle school, High school, and college are hard years for most kids, and I would love to be a light to them. Whether it's with a song that reminds a girl of her worth or a song that they can turn up on their radio that just makes them happy. I want my music to make people feel empowered and give them hope. I want it to inspire them to follow the passions the Lord has placed in their hearts and give them peace and encouragement in the “in-between” seasons of life.

Cheryl:  When people come to hear you sing, what do you want them to take away from the experience?

Emily Ann:   When people come to hear me sing, most of all, I want them to leave knowing they have a Heavenly Father who loves them and wants a relationship with them. I also want them to be able to have a great time. I want for my shows to be a fun, safe place where people can forget about all the stuff going on in their life and just relax and enjoy music. I want them to be able to smile, laugh, cry, feel empowered, nostalgic, confident and loved. I want them to know that if God could use a small town, simple girl like me, then He can use them, too. No dream is too big- if they want to be a doctor or an astronaut, or a teacher, or whatever; I hope by seeing me live my dreams, they are encouraged that theirs can be a reality also.

Cheryl:  In a culture that is becoming increasingly hostile toward God, His Word, and His cause, how do you remain grounded and firm in your Christian faith?  What keeps you steadfast amid strong pressure to be silent about your walk with Christ and conform to political correctness?

Emily Ann:  I cannot live without Christ and His word. I know that society is against God but I can not stay silent about him. The Lord changed my life and I want everyone to experience the life I have with Christ. My friends, family, and church have kept me grounded through my journey, and I’m so thankful for the support and prayer they give me.

From Left to Right:  Emily's Boyfriend, Chris Sasser; Emily Ann; Brother-in-law, Tyler Morgan; Sister, Abigail Morgan; Mother, Kelly Roberts; Father, Tommy Roberts 

Cheryl:  What is your advice to teenagers/young people who are striving with all their might to remain true to Christ and swim upstream against such strong opposition?

Emily Ann:  Lean on God with all you have. He will give you the strength to stand firm against temptation and worldly desires. I know it's hard to walk the narrow road, but it is so, so worth it in the end. All the things people chase after in this world will amount to nothing but destruction. Christ came to give life and give it abundantly. He is your portion and all you need. He satisfies every longing your heart could have. Keep reading His word and trusting Him in your life. Also, get involved in a Bible study with other believers your age. There is nothing like having friends to read Scripture with you, hold you accountable, and encourage you.

Chris Sasser & Emily Ann

Cheryl:  Having been a part of your live audience twice, my family and I have experienced first hand the powerful anointing of the Holy Spirit that is present when you sing.  Please share with us about some of the most memorable demonstrations of His presence you have witnessed during your concerts, thus far.

Emily Ann:   It always amazes me how the Lord moves when we let go and let him have his way. The Lord has moved so much during the events with Abraham Productions. There is nothing like looking out at a group of believers with their hands lifted toward Heaven, praising the name of Jesus and knowing I get to have a part in that. Seeing chains break and walls fall down is the most amazing part of what I get to do. Music is so powerful, and the Lord has shown His power through it countless times with people coming to know Him at the events.

Emily Ann performing with the Isaacs

Cheryl:  When do you feel most anointed by God while singing?  Are there particular songs that consistently bless and move you and your audience into a special time of intimate worship?

Emily Ann:  I feel like God uses different songs in different seasons, so it varies which song I feel blesses me and the audience the most. As far as when I feel most anointed, I truly feel like God uses me most when I fully lay down everything and just worship Him. I try not to worry about the words or the notes but focus on my heart and on worshipping Him. 

Cheryl:  Please tell us about your CD.  What songs are on it?  What are your favorite songs to sing?  How can we buy it?

Emily Ann:  My CD is called “Bigger Than Me,” and it came out last August. It is a mix of old hymns, current songs, and a few original songs written by myself and some of my co-writers in Nashville. My favorite songs to sing off my album are “This Blood,” “I Know Who Holds Tomorrow,” and “Bless This Mess.” Unfortunately, the only way to purchase one of my CDs is to come to my shows. We do not sell this album digitally.

Cheryl:  How can we pray for you during this season of your life and career?

Emily Ann:  Please pray that I am able to reach the people who need encouragement and the truth most and for strength, peace, discernment to know where God is leading me.

Thank you ever so much for sharing your time and inner views with us, Emily Ann!

May God continue to bless you and use you and your music ministry in new and powerful ways!

You can connect with Emily Ann by visiting her at her website, on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and her YouTube channel, 

Thanks so much for reading, and please keep Emily Ann in your prayers, dear friends!

To read previous

click the links below.

The Inner Views of Joshua Becker

The Inner Views of Lisa Newton

The Inner Views of Dr. Alveda King

The Inner Views of Jen Avellaneda

The Inner Views of Tonya Shellnutt

The Inner Views of Karen Del Tatto

The Inner Views of Evelyn Rennich

The Inner Views of Bob Sellers

The Inner Views of Kelly Bowling

The Inner Views of The Benham Brothers

The Inner Views of Beth Willis Miller

The Inner Views of Rodney Griffin

The Inner Views of Joni Eareckson Tada

The Inner Views of Gayle Cox

The Inner Views of Wayne Mobley

The Inner Views of Chris West

The Inner Views of Gail Purath

The Inner Views of Shyla Brown

The Inner Views of Mary Zatkalik

The Inner Views of Robin McCarter

The Inner Views of Dayle Shockley

The Inner Views of Serena Smith-Williams

The Inner Views of Lindsay Huggins

The Inner Views of Holly Barrett

The Inner Views of Michele Morin

The Inner Views of Lyli Dunbar

The Inner Views of Wanda Ward

The Inner Views of Lisa Avellan

The Inner Views of Zachary Smith

The Inner Views of Sarah Davison

The Inner Views of Stephanie Hoium

The Inner Views of Jason B. Ladd

The Inner Views of Jim Daly

The Inner Views of Caroline Harries

The Inner Views of Lovelle Gerth-Myers
The Inner Views of Carole West
The Inner Views of Allie Casazza
The Inner Views of Victor S E Moubarak
The Inner Views of Will Graham

The Inner Views of Betty Draper

The Inner Views of Barronelle Stutzman
The Inner Views of Brackin & Lindsay Kirkland

The Inner Views of Donna Reidland
The Inner Views of Bettie Gilbert
The Inner Views of Marlin and Becky Bontrager

The Inner Views of Dr. Michelle Bengtson
The Inner Views of Eddie & Sherry Richards
The Inner Views of Susan Whisnant