Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Ryn Dean

Ryn Dean has a voice that speaks directly to your heart. The talented singer-songwriter has learned that embracing her own struggles and vulnerabilities has allowed to connect with listeners on a much deeper level. That connection has been recognized by publications including Billboard and Cosmopolitian and is evident in her new single, “Exhale.”

Pop Culturalist caught up with Ryn to learn more about this rising star, “Exhale,” and what’s ahead.

PC: How did you discover your passion for music?
Ryn: My passion for music was something pretty ingrained from the start, so choosing a career in music wasn’t a surprise to those who know me.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Ryn: The placement of my song “Told You So” on a Brazilian telenovela and the introduction to my Brazilian fans really started it all. I am forever grateful for that opportunity and the ones that have followed because of it.

PC: You’ve had a lot of success throughout the years. When you look back, is there a particular moment that stands out?
Ryn: Thank you! I’d have to say that the first time a total stranger reached out and told me that one of my songs helped her get through a really tough time was a standout moment.

PC: Like everyone else, artists have had to adapt to the challenging year that we’ve all experienced. How have you been able to stay creatively fulfilled during this time?
Ryn: The physical separation has obviously made collaborations a bit more challenging, but it has also led to some incredible opportunities because physical location is no longer a factor. It has been a dramatic year, but I try to get inspiration from the people around me both personally and professionally no matter what.

PC: Tell us about your new single, “Exhale.” What inspired the song?
Ryn: “Exhale” started out as a song that I just needed to write for my own personal catharsis. I have always felt that mental health was as important of a topic to write and sing about as anything else. Given that this quarantine has really highlighted everyone’s need to address their mental health—some for the first time—we felt it was the right time to release the song.

PC: “Exhale” is an incredibly personal song. Has it ever been a scary prospect to be that vulnerable in your craft. What do you hope listeners take away after listening to the song?
Ryn: I have always found that the more open I am with other people about what I’m going through, the more comfortable and open they are talking about their challenges with me. I have had fans tell me that their family members don’t understand or even “believe in” the mental health struggles that they are going through. I want to not only help my fans recognize they are not alone but to continue to normalize conversations around mental health. I also offer my perspective as a discussion starter for people that want to help a loved one but may not understand what they are going through.

PC: You’ve been steadily releasing music throughout the years. If you had to pick one song that best encompasses who you are as an artist, what would it be and why?
Ryn: As an artist, my style and sound continue to evolve song by song. By the time I release a song, I may have more than one in the pipeline, and my favorite song tends to be my latest one.

PC: As we look ahead to 2021, what does the year hold for you? What can fans expect?
Ryn: After seeing how 2020 turned out, I’m a little hesitant to make any predictions! That said, I intend to continue to create and release new music. I am really looking forward to being able to perform to a live in-person audience again. I will also start to release teaser clips early in the new year for my upcoming docuseries, Chart Breakers. The docuseries will feature on-the-rise artist iNTeLL of 2nd Generation Wu—new album, We Here Now, out now; viral YouTube singer/actor/comedian Chris Mann—new single, “Good Days,” out now; mega-producer 88-Keys; songwriter Maize; and writer/producer Troy Samuela of Greg Kurstin’s group No Expectations. I feel so incredibly fortunate to be on this journey and to do so while being mentored by Grammy-winning producer and hitmaker Sandy Vee.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Ryn: Culture Club.

PC: First album you bought?
Ryn: Either a Michelle Branch or Avril Lavigne album.

PC: First concert you attended?
Ryn: A summer kick-off concert with a bunch of great artists, headlined by Maroon 5.

PC: An album that you changed your life and why?
Ryn: Sigh No More by Mumford & Sons because it was the first time that lyrics were capturing something I was going through emotionally. The experience made me want to be a lyricist.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
Ryn: Madison Square Garden.

PC: A must-have on the road?
Ryn: Duct tape and a bag of cereal.

To keep Ryn, follow her on Twitter, Instagram, and Spotify. Pick up or stream “Exhale” today.