“Ryan Schmidt is definitely an artist that knows what he needs to do.” (Darryl Gregory, Indie-Music.com) Between his tactical resourcefulness, poised stage presence, and distinct talent, he is the quintessential singer/songwriter for the modern industry. A Boston native, Schmidt has already toured the Northeast, garnered major media airplay and recorded two professional records. And all of this before his twenty first birthday.
He currently is recording his debut full-length album at Q Division Studios. His music blends the lyricism and heart of sixties folk with the eclectic and conceptual styling’s of contemporary indie-rock. Local and national musicians have taken notice and guests on the album include producer/bassist Ed Valauskas (The Gravel Pit, The Gentlemen), drummer Steve Scully (James Taylor, Lori McKenna), guitarist Aaron Tap (Matt Nathanson), and pianist Phil Aiken (uncle of Clay Aiken) among others. A three-song album sampler was released in November exclusively to labels, agents and music supervisors. The album is due to be released in late ’09.
A natural live performer, he has triumphed as Starbucks Music Makers Critic’s Choice as well as received showcases at Verge College Conference, Club Passim’s Cutting Edge of the Campfire, NEMO Music Festival. In November he headlined at the Paradise Rock Club. Scott Harris, producer of the New Hampshire Edge Music Series, says that Ryan Schmidt is “one of the best solo performers I have heard to date.” He has leveraged his onstage accomplishments to gain endorsements from Samick Guitars, Untold Media, UthTV, and Knucklehead Strings. In addition, he was chosen as a “River Rising Star” and has received considerable airplay on WXRV 92.5 The River as well as been reviewed by writers for MTV, Spin, Vibe, Indie-Music.com and Rebel Spirit.
Ryan Schmidt will tell you that his music “represents the determination and struggle of an independent musician,” all of which is laid bare in his recordings and live performances. For these reasons, “Schmidt is a refreshing dichotomy – talented beyond his years and mature enough to keep his lyrics as fun and free-wheeling as he should be at 18.” (Alyssa Rashbaum, MTV, Rebel Spirit)