Ryn Hills on Chasing Dreams & His Motown Roots
Ryn Hills comes through today for another dope installment in our 2021 interview series. The son of Thomas McClary, founder and lead guitarist of The Commodores, Ryn is carving out his own lane in the music industry with raw talent and plenty of humor.
After briefly attending Florida A&M University and touring internationally with his father as a vocalist/guitarist in The Commodores Experience band, the multi-talented musician decided to pack his things and head to the Big Apple.
Although he began creating music at the age of five, Ryn soon developed his skills as a producer and engineer working alongside his father in the studio. His first major production credit came in 2017 when the song "Overflow" by Q Alexander accumulated more than 1M YouTube views. This minor success inspired Ryn to improve the quality of his own music.
His musicality and sense of humor shines bright in the visual for his new single, "Peter Parker". Ryn Hills is an infectious, buoyant artist whose music style eases tension at a hostile time in America.
So, it was only right to catch up with him for an exclusive Hype Off Life interview. Get into it below, as Ryn gets into navigating the creative scene during COVID, “Peter Parker”, touring with his dad, and advice to everybody pursuing their dreams. Right now and only on Hype Off Life 👊🏾
COVID-19 has been rough on even the toughest of us. How has it been for you to live and work in a big city, like NYC at the height of the pandemic?
It felt like time stopped, no one could go anywhere. There were difficulties collaborating and shooting because of scheduling conflicts and everyone trying to practice social distancing. But people got creative and we found ways to work and stay safe. Also, it gave me downtime to keep making music and cut out other distractions so it wasn’t all bad.
When did you make up in your mind to stop going to Florida A&M and move to NY to pursue your career?
I think I decided to take music seriously after my freshman year. College played a huge role in allowing me to come out of my musical shell. That year, I formed an organization, started a band, and got plays on the local radio station, but the next semester I lost my scholarship and dropped out. I always knew I wanted to make music so I decided to dive into it full time.
I think it’s healthy to have a good sense of humor
What challenges have you faced along the way in establishing your career?
Biggest challenge for me has been finding my way up to this point as Ryn Hills the artist. Just figuring out my brand and mastering my sound because it’s unique. But the journey has been great so far and it's amazing seeing myself grow as a person and an artist.
You incorporate laughter in your visuals a lot, most recently in “Peter Parker”. Why do you feel it’s important for others to laugh more and stress less?
I think it’s healthy to have a good sense of humor. There's a lot going on in the world and there's a lot of things to be stressed about but you can’t let the everyday small things stress you out, you gotta just find the laughter where you can.
Speaking of “Peter Parker”, what is the inspiration behind it’s concept?
It’s always bananas when I get in the studio with Roe Lindsey. I was riffing on the guitar and we caught a vibe. At first, I didn’t know what I wanted to rap about but after my home girl pulled up to the studio, I figured I’d shoot my shot and instantly had the inspiration for the hook. Roe went in and slid his verse and that was it. I also wanted to play off the “Spider-Man” theme so we shot the video in NYC.
Your music flawlessly blends your Motown roots with modern day influences. What is your absolute favorite Motown record?
One of my favorites is actually one my dad wrote, a song called “Sail On” by The Commodores. That song is so cold I made a remix to it. You can find it on Soundcloud.
What some people might not know is that you’re a producer too. Which stretches your creativity the most - producing behind the scenes or being an artist in front of the camera?
Probably production, because I can produce for anybody from Arianna Grande to 42 Dugg. It’s a fun challenge for me to find the voice to match a song or beat perfectly.
Your “I Can” is better than your IQ
It must’ve been awesome getting to work and tour with your dad. Tell us more about those experiences.
It was dope. I built a strong relationship with the band and learned the importance of timeless music. My first time touring Europe was an experience, all the shows were sold out. After that first show in Switzerland I realized my pops is the G.O.A.T. and music has no language barriers. People were able to feel the same emotions in Switzerland as they do in the U.S., music connects people across the borders.
What is the best piece of advice your Dad has given you?
He would always say stay ready so you don't have to get ready.
What is the best piece of advice you have for others pursuing their dreams?
Find out what your gift is and fully embrace it. Your “I Can” is better than your IQ.
