Ryan Oyer - Ringgold, GA

**Episode Summary:**

In this episode of the Peach Jam Podcast, host Jeremy Powell sits down with Ryan Oyer, a singer-songwriter from Ringgold, Georgia. Ryan's journey from small-town musician to recording artist is a fascinating tale of passion, persistence, and personal growth. Ryan shares insights into his eclectic music style, the challenges of balancing music with a full-time job, and the joy of creating music with his family.

**Guest:**

**Ryan Oyer**

- **Location:** Ringgold, Georgia

- **Genres:** Pop and Americana-influenced songwriter music

- **Current Projects:** Working on his seventh record; recent release on vinyl

**Key Topics Discussed:**

1. **Early Inspirations and Career Beginnings:**

- Ryan reflects on his first major music experiences at the Tabernacle and how far he's come since then.

- He started writing music at 18 and performing regularly around age 25.

2. **Music Style and Process:**

- Ryan describes his genre-blending style, which he attributes to allowing the song to dictate its own direction.

- He emphasizes the importance of collaboration and openness to new ideas, particularly in his work with multi-instrumentalist Butch.

3. **Recording and Production:**

- Ryan shares his unique approach to recording, including the DIY methods used during the pandemic with an iPhone and GarageBand.

- He discusses his experience with vinyl pressing and the emotional impact of hearing his music on vinyl.

4. **Balancing Music with Other Responsibilities:**

- Despite music being a major passion, Ryan works full-time at a flooring company and supports his music through gig income.

- He explains how he manages his music career around family commitments, particularly focusing on his young children.

5. **Local Scene and Performance Venues:**

- Ryan talks about the music scene in northwest Georgia, his regular performances at local hotels, and his involvement with other local musicians.

- He reflects on the contrast between performing in intimate settings and larger events.

6. **Thoughts on Success and Fame:**

- Ryan defines success as the ability to continue creating music that he is proud of and finding personal satisfaction in his work.

- He discusses his preference for a more private life over seeking mainstream fame and the fulfillment he finds in smaller-scale achievements.

7. **Advice and Hopes for the Future:**

- Ryan shares his hopes for his children to find their own passions and pursue them with the same dedication he has for music.

**Episode Credits:**

- **Host:** Jeremy Powell

- **Executive Producer:** Sandy Malcolm

- **Sound Engineering and Recording:** Sounds Good

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**Listen to Peach Jam Podcast:**

- Available wherever you watch Georgia Public Broadcasting.