Stephanie Ryann – Ain’t Nothing Better

By starrymag | February 23, 2021

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound? 

 

A) I’d describe my sound as “modern country.” “Country” is such a wide genre these days, so my music is a mix between country, pop, folk, and rock, depending on the song.

 

Q) Who are some of your musical influences? 

 

A) It’s tough to choose only a few. Some of my top musical influences include Miranda Lambert, Chris Stapleton, Kacey Musgraves and Carly Pearce.

 

Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Ain’t Nothing Better.” 

 

A) I began writing “Aint Nothing Better” a few weeks prior to getting together with my friends and co-writers Dariann Leigh and Taylor Teasley. I had most of the lyrics written but needed help with a melody and some lyrical changes. With the help of those two we were able to create this fun song about how much we all enjoy a little whiskey.

 

Q) What do you think it is about the song that fans will connect to? 

 

A) I feel like there’s always room at the table for songs about whiskey, especially in country music. I think those who enjoy whiskey will relate to the lyrics the most. This song also has a slightly different sound than what I’ve done in the past giving listeners insight to another side of my personality.

 

Q) How does the video for the track play into the message behind it? 

 

A) When having a glass of whiskey, I like to relax and decompress. When I wrote the song, I envisioned the same thing…a low key and relaxed vibe.  I wanted the video to align with this and be simple and straightforward. I fell in love with the simplicity and calm nature of the location and it felt like the perfect place to shoot.

 

Q) What is your song writing process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics? 

 

A) My songwriting process varies depending on what comes to me first, lyrics or melody. Whichever I get first, I’ll either voice record the lyrics or hum the melody into my phone and then build the song around what I have.

 

Q) How much of a hand do you have in the production of your music? 

 

A) In the past when I was able to be in the studio, I would have full access to assist in the production of my music. Due to COVID, I still have a hand in the production, but in a smaller capacity. My producer is based in Nashville and while I can’t travel there right now, I always get the final say on every song to ensure it’s what I’ve envisioned.

 

Q) What songs are you looking forward to performing live? 

 

A) It’s been almost a year since I’ve performed live in front of a live audience which is hard to believe. Frankly, I’m looking forward to performing all of my songs. It will be such a breath of fresh air to be able to perform in front of a live audience again.

 

Q) What do you hope listeners take away from listening to your music as a whole? 

 

A) Each song I’ve released is written from a personal place. I’m hoping that listeners can relate to the message in each song, whether it inspires them, helps them through tough times or brings them joy.

 

Q) Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you? 

 

A) The first venue I performed at as a solo artist was The Acoustic in Bridgeport, CT. For that reason, it will always hold a special place in my heart. I’ve also been lucky to perform at several other venues, including Redneck Riviera in Nashville where I got to perform with the Sidepiece Band and the Borgata in NJ where I got to assist Jackson Dean with opening for Cole Swindell. I’m greatly looking forward to getting back out there and performing live again!

 

Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future? 

 

A) There are so many writers and artists I would be honored to collaborate with. Just off the top of my head I’d love to write with Emily Shackleton, Luke Dick and Chris Stapleton. They’re incredibly talented and I love all three of their writing styles.

 

Q) What album/band are you currently listening to and why do you dig them? 

 

A) I’m currently listening to all of John Mayer’s albums. His lyrics and sound truly stand the test of time. I never get tired of it!

 

Q) You auditioned for “American Idol,” “The Voice” and “Nashville Star.” What advice would you give to others looking to break into the music industry? 

 

A) My best advice is to forge your own path as an artist. If you want to audition for various tv shows to help give you a leg up, go for it. If you want to do it independently, then do it. There’s no blueprint for this industry, so just follow your heart, listen to your gut, trust your craft and stick with it. Nothing worth having comes easy.

 

Q) You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans? 

 

A) I love the ability to connect with my fans directly. Social media gives you access to so many people around the world and that’s a true blessing. If I didn’t have social media, connecting with my fan base would prove much more difficult and I wouldn’t have the opportunity to interact with them and reach so many additional listeners.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work? 

 

A) I can’t thank everyone enough for listening, streaming, purchasing merchandise, sharing my music, etc. I consider myself quite blessed to have the love and support from my fans. It’s a gift I feel so lucky to have received. I love you all!