Ryan Dart’s music encompasses the worlds that he lives in. You can’t sing about needing rain, unless you really know what it means to need rain. As a grandson of the dust bowl and a steward of the land, Dart’s unique blend of modern knowledge and continual search for forgotten truths has led to this most recent collection Edge of the Wild. Dart sings scenes from underneath a Roman Colosseum to frame standout lines like, “Trying to tell myself the truth / Looking for the same in you” or longing for a return to the road with the album’s opening track “Ready for the Road”. Dart showcases his significant lyrical evolution since his first release a decade ago with pandemic- and quarantine-inspired tracks like “Loves Gone Outta Style” and “Right or Wrong.”
“In a world where it’s increasingly difficult to find something real to connect with, Ryan Dart and his music do just that,” says Daniel Sproul (Rose Hill Drive, Ryan Bingham, Hard Working Americans). “Theres no mistaking the soul and authenticity that he brings with his lyrics and tunes. Edge of the Wild gives you all of that and more.” The new album, “Edge Of The Wild”, was released April 22, 2022!
What has been the driving force of your career in this upcoming New Year?
The driving force for the upcoming year is to continue to write songs for the next album and grow my live show into new territory. The more challenging life is, the more the music and songwriting inherently evolves. Processing life and its hurdles through music and art are super important to me as an artist and a fan.
Are you planning to do anything BIG next year for your career?
I’m envisioning big things for next year! I’m trying to find that balance between intention and surrender to manifest more festival performances, a wider touring circuit, and my strongest album offering so far.
What adjustments have to be made in order to get to that goal?
I’m working to remove anything that’s been blocking my growth and progression artistically. I don’t think anyone is immune to the challenges these days and I’m trying to be more transparent with my own experience through my songs. Hopefully that will speak to people on a deep level and offer a voice to those who need that (like so many other artists have done for me over the years)
What personal goal have you set for yourself that you’d like others to think about too?
One of my goals this year is to not hesitate to be authentic even when it’s uncomfortable in the moment. In the past I’ve bit my tongue too much in an attempt to accommodate others and their experience. Even though I had good intentions with this, it didn’t always work out for the best so I’m going to do a better job of speaking up whether through song or conversation.
Making more moves in this New Year can be really exciting, is there anything that you are nervous about when it comes to your career? How do you get over those nerves and go for what YOU want?
The more you put your art out there in the world the more you open yourself up to criticism but you also open yourself up to the infinite possibility! I’ve learned to put everything I have into each album or live show and make it the best it can be in that moment. I don’t think it helps to overthink it and just let it be a snapshot of that time. There’s always some nerves as you release a new song or performance into the world but that is part of the fun and excitement of sharing with the public. Think of your favorite album and how bummed you’d be if that artist didn’t release it because of nerves or self doubt!
What chances are you taking in 2023 when it comes to collaboration?
I’m always open to new collaboration and 2023 is no exception. I was blessed to meet some great new people in 2022 and some of those folks already played shows with me. A highlight for me was getting to play some shows with my new friend Phoebe Hunt! She’s an amazing fiddle player, singer, and overall human so check her out if you aren’t hip to all her great music yet. I trust the universe will continue to provide those opportunities for growth if I keep an open ear and open heart.
Name the word of the year for 2023?
The word of the year for 2023 for me is: intention
Setting intentions is so important especially when accomplishing your goals! How do you make sure to keep that heart and drive you have for yourself?
I’m really trying to build small positive habits that will help me get closer to achieving my goals and that is helping me stay courageous despite life’s challenges. Honestly, the past year was the toughest yet for me in many ways. I’ve been dealing with new uncertainty as I navigate a divorce and becoming a single dad but I want my son to be able to see me continue to chase my dreams in the hopes that he keeps his dreams alive as he gets older.
What is happening NEXT for you?
(: I wish I had a glimpse into the future but since I don’t I’ll continue to be an optimist and just say great things are coming next in music, life, and love.
Social media for ALL your new fans?
Instagram is @ryandartmusic
Facebook is @ryandartsmusic
Thank you for taking the time out of your busy day!
Of course! Thanks for helping independent artists reach the new eyes and ears! Each new fan is super important to us…
Links:
Website: https://www.ryandartmusic.com/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@dartryandart
Instagram: @ryandartmusic
End of Interview