Today we’d like to introduce you to Ryan J.
Ryan, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Well, I started singing around the age of 11 or 12 years old. I started picking up on music at a young age by watching my great grandmother singing and piano in church. She was excellent at it and very skilled. She definitely had God-given talent. My Dad was also a singer back in the day. He was in a band with a famous Jazz Musician Kenny G called Cold, Boat and Together. So, he is an excellent vocalist as well. And while he would go to work. I go through his record collection and just listen to the greats and just study their craft, how they would sing, and also study their vocal technique and that’s basically how I developed my voice. But the gift definitely comes from above. I come from a musical family so it was definitely passed on to me. I also sung the school choir as well. That’s where I also developed my ear for music, and it definitely got me to where I’m at today because I was able to drop my first EP I Am Soulman available on digital platforms, network and meet different types of artist and musicians and being able to showcase my talent in front of people as well.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
No, the road hasn’t always been smooth and it has its perks when being an artist. Some of the struggles was dealing with people were not being about their business. Putting on disorganized events and being taken advantage of. Also working with other artists who have alter egos and hidden agendas. As they say too many chefs and not enough Indians. Also, getting music out. I am very particular about what I put out because I always want it to be at its best. But it’s rewarding in the end. Some of the obstacles I had to face was learning how to have thick skin in the industry because it is a cut-throat business and you have to have thick skin. Just like in any business or corporation but you never let anyone cheat you out or talk you out of your money if the business isn’t right. But it’s all a learning experience and always room to grow as an artist.
Please tell us more about your music. What do you do? What do you specialize in? What sets you apart from the competition?
I’m a Singer/Songwriter. And I Specialize in R&B and Soul music. I’m very well known for my Soulful voice, sound, vibe and romantic lyrics with a grown n sexy appeal. Most proud of the work I have been putting in and getting music out there and learning to grow and evolve as an artist and which am doing right now as we speak. What sets me apart from others is bringing a freshness and romantic vibe to R&B and nostalgic sound meeting with the modern sound in today’s music. A lot of my influences come from the greats and new artists of today. Sam Cooke, Marvin Gaye, Michael Jackson, R.Kelly and Joe just name a few…
What were you like growing up?
Man… wow, growing up, I was kind of bad. Getting into anything and everything. I was a bit mischievous. But I turned out well growing up and have a lot to be thankful for. When I’m not doing music, I like to chill, get out have a good time, and explore new things and checkout stuff that goes on in Black communities, I’m into fashion so I always find the newest and latest clothing that’s out. And I’m a movie lover so as well. So, if it looks good, I’m definitely going to go watch it.
Contact Info:
- Email: ryanjmusik@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/ryanjsoulman
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/ryanjsmith98
Image Credit:
Darius BTB and Steve Glick
Suggest a story: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
