Hayley Williams, the lead singer of Paramore, was born to Cristi and Joey Williams. Her parents separated in 2002 when she was 13 years old, a turning point that influenced her growing years and creative path.
Cristi Williams, Hayley’s mother, is a professional in the entertainment industry. She founded and runs Shading the Limelight, LLC, a consulting and life coaching company with offices in Nashville and Los Angeles. Since 2004, the firm has helped artists develop a healthy mindset and manage the emotional challenges of fame by finding balance between personal and professional life.
In addition to her business, Cristi has shared her expertise as a Certified NLP Master Practitioner and educator. Since 2013, she has taught emotional and social skills at Belmont University, drawing on over a decade of previous teaching experience in Tennessee and Mississippi.
Cristi holds a master’s degree in Education and Counselling from Mississippi State University and advanced NLP certification from Global NLP Training.
“Raising Hayley has been my greatest and most rewarding accomplishment,” Cristi Williams once said.
Joey Williams, Hayley’s father, was an active presence during her childhood. Although little is publicly known about his career, his early involvement and support played an important role during her formative years before her parents' separation.
Through guidance, independence, and emotional wisdom from both parents, Hayley Williams found the balance that helped shape her rise as an influential artist.