Today, I got to catch up with singer-songwriter & actor Devonte Riley. Since his last two releases of his debut album “Restricted Limits” and single “Good Love,” both in 2015, Devonte Riley has been active in the film industry, acting in several television projects and commercials.
During the 2020 Coronavirus pandemic, Devonte Riley found solitude in working on new music, exercising daily, and adopting a new healthy ketogenic diet.
LOGAN: Devonte, thank you for doing this interview with us. I enjoy your music a lot! First, I’d like to ask what made you want to try Keto?
DEVONTE: Thank you for having me and being a supporter! I became interested in the keto diet during the lockdown. I noticed how much weight I had gained and wanted to start immediately, but I realized I needed to kick some old habits.
I had been snacking way too much, and one day, I looked in the mirror and was not happy with the person I saw staring back at me, so I went on a “30-Day No Sugar Challenge”.
Within those 30 days, I started doing cardio twice a day, eating healthier foods consisting of high fats, high proteins, and low carbs, and drinking apple cider vinegar, turmeric, and cinnamon tea every morning and right before bed. After four weeks, I successfully entered ketosis.
LOGAN: Devonte, I am very proud to hear that you’ve made some positive changes. That is very inspiring! You make it sound so easy! Were there any cheat days? Be honest!
DEVONTE: I had NO cheat days. By that point, I had cut sugar entirely out of my diet. Sugar was the enemy. I had to commit to this diet fully. It’s just like committing to a character in an acting role. You give it your all, or you go home. I will admit that the temptation of having a snack or two is there, but you must remain consistent. Moderation and portion size are also important as well.
LOGAN: I saw that you were also a 5’7’’ male model. Some may say that isn’t a standard height for a male in that industry. Can you speak about how you plan to push the envelope?
DEVONTE: Times are consistently changing. In the past, I remember when plus-size models weren’t as in demand as they are now. In 2022, they are currently supported and represented more confidently than ever.
LOGAN: As a male model, have you faced any height or weight discrimination?
There are many misconceptions about male models. As a model and actor, I have faced height and weight discrimination countless times. When you audition for characters, they expect you to be a certain way. We have seen many changes over the years regarding the ideal standards, and just like the plus-size models, I have hope that shorter male models will make space in the industry in the future.
LOGAN: Are you working on any new music?
DEVONTE: Yes, everyone has been asking about the music! I am working on some Christmas tunes at the moment, and I am also working on my second studio project, which is due in 2023.
I took a break because not only did I suffer from writer’s block, but I also experienced an identity crisis. You release your first project and spend time looking for the next best thing after that. That was me after 2015. I was trying to find my “sound” without sounding like the last project. I also have television projects lined up for next year as well!
LOGAN: Thank you for your time Devonte. Please join us again. We’d love to have you!
http://www.devonteriley.com
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http://www.twitter.com/itsdevonteriley
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