A Hip-hop Elton John?

PRLog (Press Release) - Nov 08, 2007 -
(Pittsburgh, PA) — “A Hip-Hop Elton John.” That’s exactly how Ryan Skyy, a Pittsburgh piano-based singer/songwriter, would describe his debut independent demo CD, BETA version 0.9. And what else would you expect from a 21-year old, soft-spoken, recording artist, who spent the majority of his childhood idolizing piano/pop artists like Billy Joel and Stevie Wonder, but also snuck out of his parent’s house on the weekends to soak up the music at underage hip-hop clubs?

Ryan’s debut (due out December 1st) features five original, self-produced, songs that highlight a unique sound he has developed that communicates sincere, instantly-relatable, lyrics through a landscape of soulful vocals, catchy pianos, and surprisingly modern hip-hop beats.

Carla Bianco (#1 Billboard singer-songwriter/ASCAP award winner) described him best when she raved "Ryan Skyy is the real thing...the male version of Alicia Keys. A consummate pianist, vocalist and composer with a hip-hop groove." It's no wonder that Ryan's down-to-earth character, melodic gifts, and natural ability to write music that strikes an emotional nerve have connected him to a steadily growing fanbase; which, originated in the hallways of Point Park University and has since begun to spread through local venues and online music communities.

Despite an avalanche of overwhelmingly positive feedback from fans, and scores of pre-orders for his soon-to-be-released demo CD, Ryan still considers his music to be in its developmental (i.e. ‘beta’) stage; which, if you’ve made the connection, is the inspiration behind the title of his CD. Ryan explains, “It’s important that I communicate to fans that while I believe my music is ready for release, this demo only represents one stage in a career that will consist of continuous growth and evolution. As my music matures and I grow, I want to document that path and give fans the ability to follow me on my journey. The ultimate culminating release for me will be version 1.0, but that will not be out until a record label contract is signed and a professional LP is released.”

For now, Ryan is staying focused on the beginning stages of his blossoming career and continuing to build momentum in what he hopes will lead him to the forefront of a modern pop renaissance of a piano-based singer/songwriter legacy established by Elton John and Billy Joel. With vocals similar to Gavin Degraw and Justin Timberlake, and a writing style reminiscent of Stevie Wonder, Ryan’s catchy, socially conscious, and emotionally driven music is bound to push the envelope on a new era of pop music.

For more information on Ryan Skyy and Beta version 0.9, visit http://www.ryanskyy.com or send an e-mail to ryanskyy@gmail.com.

Photo:
http://www.prlog.org/10037136/1