Meet Brett Ryder | Musician & Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Brett Ryder and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brett, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
My mind is full of a lot of ideas and introspective thought but I am not the greatest when it comes time to expressing them through traditional mediums and I think that’s why I was drawn to music and art. I have the intelligence and drive to be anything I want; I’m getting my associate’s degree while I’m still in high school, but where I find most happiness and fulfillment is in this creative space. At a young age I came to the conclusion that if you do what you love, you never truly have to work a day in your life. You should never give up on your dreams; if you can put in the work and keep that drive and passion, you can turn any dream into a reality. I always said that when I “grew up” I wanted to be the person that “little kid me” dreamed of. And so far, I’m not disappointing him.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I started playing guitar and singing when I was 9 years old and I haven’t stopped since. I’m now 17, playing acoustic guitar, electric guitar, bass, and vocals at multiple gigs per week, all over Atlanta. I’m also currently recording my first album in the studio. I play a range of music from classic rock to pop, grunge, alternative and even a little country, but my original music is pop rock. I’m also a killer metal guitarist and vocalist but not many people get to hear that. I have performed at big charity events, festivals all over Georgia, restaurants, private parties and sporting events – in fact, I just sung the National Anthem at the Atlanta Open. But, I didn’t just wake up one morning and start getting gigs. It took years of self teaching, practice, studying, trial and error and a whole lot of networking and marketing. I think what sets me apart from others is my determination. Nothing stops this train no matter how many pennies are on the track. I navigate every obstacle without stressing out and I keep things in perspective. I actively work to remove negativity from my life and others around me. Negativity only brings ignorance and hate and I do not participate in any of that. It is my goal to provide positivity through my music and the person that I am. I also volunteer often which keeps me in touch with my community and my people. We need more of that in this world. My brand is not just music though, it’s also art. I create, exhibit and sell abstract art that conveys a lot of the same feelings that my music does. I love being able to connect and inspire others through my music and my art. Creative expression makes the world a better place.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my friend was coming into town I would take them to all my favorite places. We’d probably cycle everywhere because it’s my favorite mode of transportation. Among the stops we would make are to one of my favorite restaurants – RAKKAN Ramen. Ramen is one of my favorite foods and it’s always super tasty there. If it’s a nice day, I would definitely go to the Botanical Gardens and touch some grass. I especially love the gardens during Halloween and Christmas too. I usually go there a couple of times a year. If my friend is feeling adventurous I would take them to play one of my favorite hobbies – airsoft at SS Airsoft in Sugar Hill. That’s always a fun time! I would also go to Ameris Bank Amphitheatre to see a concert. It is such a great space to see a show in! I recently saw Alice in Chains, as well as The Black Crowes and I’ll soon be seeing Bret Michaels and also Pantera there. Can you tell I like live rock music? Speaking of which, I might have my friend come to one of my shows – I play in many different places throughout Atlanta and I can’t pick favorites- so keep booking me. Please and thank you.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I give all my thanks to God and to my parents. I am lucky to have a supportive and loving family, but especially a mom who, not only homeschooled me, but is always by my side every single time I play. She has been instrumental in marketing, scheduling and a lot of social media while at the same time making sure I got to every voice lesson, meeting, event or gig on time. She also made sure I still got to be a “kid” and didn’t take on too much at once. My family has been there every step of the way and they mean everything to me.

Website: www.brettryder.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/brettrydermusic

Facebook: www.Facebook.com/brettrydermusic

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@BrettRyder

TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@brettrydermusic 
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/brettrydermusic