Ryan Lane: High Vibrations
Let’s hop right into this latest single / video, “Against All Odds,“ a remake of the Phil Collins classic — Tell me about this particular track; how did it come to fruition?
Yes, “Against All Odds”…one day while recording with the team Lady and the Tramp, Tramp got a phone call from KayGee, he suggested the song, Tramp pulled it up and we got to work. I was nervous because, I mean, it’s Phil Collins! I also heard Brian McKnight and Mariah Carey’s version, so I knew the bar was set high. But my team had faith in me, so I was ready to make it happen.
Of course “ Against All Odds” comes courtesy of your still forthcoming solo debut — What all can you reveal and / or divulge about the upcoming said body of work?
Without saying too much, I’m definitely in my bag! I will be showcasing my skills as a writer and stylist. A lot of the songs on the project I wrote while on tour with New Kids on the Block; (The) MixTape Tour 2022. I wanna bring the type of R&B back where men weren’t afraid to express their feelings and be vulnerable. You know, talking about love.
How then does this new material(s) either differ and / or compare to previous Ryan Lane entries?
I wouldn’t say it’s too much different. It’s always a feel good vibe to my sound, but this go ‘round I’m coming with a grown and sexy vibe. You know, dinner by candlelight and romance, etcetera, etcetera.
“Against All Odds” is an Illtown Sluggaz release — What particular string of events actually led to your initial linking up with Vin Rock and KayGee and later inking to / with their imprint?
Well other than growing up on Naughty by Nature, I was first introduced to the guys as a songwriter working with Lady and the Tramp. After creating with various artists under (the) Illtown imprint over the years, my opportunity finally came during the pandemic with the release “Forever”…and we have been running since.
As a songwriter, when you sit down to pen your lyrics where do you draw your inspiration from?
Honestly, I draw inspiration from everywhere and everyone, even just a simple conversation. I also think I have a great imagination, so I can kinda get in the space and let the music just take over.
Reflecting, tell me your whole inception into music — When did you first become interested in it? And, how did it all begin for Ryan Lane?
I have wanted to be a performing artist since day one. I’ve always been a music lover and a great listener. As early as elementary school I wanted to sing. I was in Glee clubs and choirs, so I was getting my chops up at an early age. By the time I got to high school [The Boys Choir of Harlem], my mind was pretty much made up; music would be my profession.
Now you’re a native of New York City, correct? So growing up in ‘The Empire State,’ who all did / do you consider to be your strongest musical influences?
Yes, I was born and raised in New York City. Funny you asked ‘cause my dad was a cab driver, so I was exposed to everything on the radio of all genres. But definitely the great’s; such as Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Usher, Brandy, you know, THE VOICES!
In having said that, how do you classify your overall sound and / or style?
My overall sound is a combination of what I’ve learned from the legends before me over the years, and the artist I’ve become today, is a great blend of both worlds. And it’s always good vibes music, and from the heart music, that you can feel. If you listen close enough, you can definitely hear the influences.
Switching gears here…
What do you feel will be the key to your longevity?
The key to longevity for me is consistency, and always putting your best foot forward.
What do you want people to get from your music?
I want people to hear my music and just feel exactly who I am as an artist. Just from the tone of my voice, I want people to feel warm. By hearing my music, you will know I’ve done my homework.
On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of R&B?
I am happy with the state of R&B. There are so many super talented artists out here really making their own lane and creating sounds that the world hasn’t even heard yet. Plus, a lot of the R&B greats are either on tour or getting ready to come back. So I am very happy that the creativity is back. And I’m in the pot!
Do you have any other outside / additional aspirations, maybe even completely away from music?
Oh, absolutely! I would love to one day open a school; something like The Boys Choir of Harlem. Somewhere to learn all the tools and skills you need to be a performer, or (for) life in general. And, of course, a fashion line.
To date, what has been your greatest career moment(s), at least thus far anyway?
I’d say being a part of The MixTape Tour with NKOTB, Salt -N-Pepa, En Vogue and Rick Astley, was truly life changing for me. I was able to learn so much, and genuinely be myself performing as Ryan Lane with Illtown Sluggaz. I woke up everyday like, “Wow, I’m really on tour with these Legends!”
What’s an average day like for you?
An average day for me is busy! Lol. I, for sure, make time for the gym. The gym is my time for me and gearing up for my day, then anything could be happening. I could have a session, teaching a class or designing an apartment, the list goes on. I stay busy; the work don’t stop!
Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans…
I love to keep a close bond with my homies. We message and chat all the time. I always hear beautiful stories, and get amazing messages from them. It keeps me going and inspired. I love my #LaneMakers.
What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?
My favorite part is the studio; I love to create. Seeing a song come from nothing to a masterpiece always blows my mind. I love it! Hmm, my least favorite…you gotta get back to me with that one! Lol.
What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
Just be a nice person. No matter the situation, be nice, show up and do what you do. Bring your light and be a sponge…the growing never stops.
Lastly, what’s next for Ryan Lane?
EVERYTHING! I’m ready to take my talents and my career to the next level. I’ve grown so much as a person and an artist, so Everything…and it’s all happening right now.
Is there anything I left out, or just plain forgot to mention?
Be sure to follow me on all platforms: @Iamryanlane…and look out for all the new music on the way.
Any “closing” thought(s) for our readers?
KEEP DREAMING, AND WORKING HARD. MAKE YOUR OWN WAY. CREATE YOUR LANE.
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