One of Australia’s most exciting country talents at the moment, how did you first get into music and what led you there?
I started music at eight. I just liked the guitar, so I started with classical guitar which lead to the electric guitar which led to becoming a full-time touring musician. The rest is history.
Tell us about your forthcoming new album, Where I Need to Be and the single ‘Wasting Time’. What is the story behind it? What inspired it?
After being a touring musician for over 20 years, I realised how much I had sacrificed and I was questioning if I had wasted valuable time. I also had my first child and my whole perspective on life changed. I then discovered what I had sacrificed and where I was is what defines me and I am exactly where I need to be at this point in time.
How would you describe your sound and how did you come to it?
For me, my sound needs to create passion rather than perfection. Production that is rough, jagged and slightly distorted is more appealing to me than clean cut, over-processed and smooth.
You spent some time recording and networking with industry professionals at the home of country music, Nashville. How did that experience benefit your career moving forward?
Nashville is every country artist’s platform to success. For me, the idea was to stand on the outside and understand how the Nashville machine works. I have a much better understanding now where to position myself as an artist in the US country music scene
Is there any news or any shows on the horizon that Ray Ryder fans should keep an eye out for?
I am hoping that the singles from the new album are well received and I can get on the road touring the new album, as well as join some of the larger festivals around Australia.
Listen to Ray Ryder’s new single ‘Wasting Time’ now on streaming services.
