Serious Songwriter: Henry Ryeder
Henry Ryeder
Location:
New York, NY, USA
Tell us about yourself:
The surname Ryeder is one I gave myself because I don't really care or think too much about names. My mind's too busy to care about definitions, I'm mostly preoccupied with shaping complicated, intricate songs. I'm certainly obsessive, but please don't think that means I believe it's all spectacular. All I know is that it all feels worth it to me.
Name of your most recent release:
Why are you a songwriter?
I think I've always been attracted to financial stability.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
Grand Romance, and my trepidation in typing it out only proves it. I've expended so much energy on this song - the emotional weight of writing it, the physical duty of performing and singing it, and the social work of collaborating with others to get it close to how I wanted it to sound. It's the first song I've released on my own, and after 24 years of anxiously waiting for some door to open, it feels nice to know that I'm able to simply walk around the doorway to whatever's waiting for me. You hear all these stories about your favorite artists - and your exceptionally successful friends - finding recognition at such an early age and it makes you question and doubt yourself. With Grand Romance I've been able to quiet those self-critical voices and just let myself be at peace with the work and care I put into it.
Share the most interesting writing experience you ever had:
I wrote a very catchy (and I mean very much so) song called "Manic Pixie Dream Boy" within about twenty seconds one evening when I was at my old desk job. It has a very simple descending chord structure but the melody keeps ascending and then falling down again in a weird New Orleans-style counterpoint way. When I heard it in my head I ran to the bathroom to whistle it into my voice memos.
What makes you unique as a songwriter?
I'm a sad white boy who sings songs about not being understood.
If you could write with anyone (dead or alive) who would it be and why?
Sidney Gish - one million times over. I really believe she's the best composer in indie music today, not to mention a fantastic lyricist. I think we'd write some wild and catchy songs together.
How can the Serious Songwriter community help you?
The Joe Rogan-shaped elephant in the room for all musicians in 2020 is how to monetize their work with streaming being the only viable way to get their work out there. I think it would be terrific to host or create some kind of panels/discussions about best ways to go about making a living off of their music. If the answer is "write songs for someone else" or "make elevator music" then that's fine! I just think the lack of clarity and anxiety that musicians face simply isn't fair considering the obviousness of the problem, and I'd rather have someone give it to me straight rather than hop along with unrealistic expectations and constant worry.
What can you help the Serious Songwriter community with?
I take all the work I do very seriously, and have an understanding of the ups and downs of an artist's (and songwriter's) working process. I'll always lend a helping hand or voice when it's needed, and will give in any way I can.
Fun Fact About You:
No fun facts, but I recommend blasting Grand Romance after a breakup with a Dark 'N' Stormy in your hand.