What’s your favorite kind of sandwich?
Tuna sandwich! I can pretend to be eating healthy and grind down as many of those as possible.
The Beatles or Elvis? Why?
Elvis because he’s closer to the blues and always maintained the memphis vibe. He is America, man! All different bloodlines like Irish, Scottish, Native American, and Jewish. He grew up dirt poor and became a superstar by following his passion. His story really means a lot to me and his singing was so soulful. The Beatles are cool, don’t get me wrong, but the King was the coolest. I think John, Paul, George and Ringo would agree.
Lyrics to live by?
Live like you were dying! I like the idea of cherishing every breath.
“Desert Island” album?
I can’t think of anything other than Appetite for Destruction, and that Eric Church with “loves me like Jesus does,” what’s it called? Forget it, I’m taking my whole iPod to the island..
What country music artists do you listen to the most?
Merle, Waylon, Eric Church, Dwight, Zac Brown…
How do you see country music evolving within 10 years?
I see a resurgence of so called “traditional country”. I think the pop and hip hop influence will still be around, but the classic sound will make a big comeback. Country artists have always pushed the boundaries and brought in new sounds. There was a time when using drums was considered new and “ruining” country. Most people don’t realize that country music has always evolved. I think the important element of Country is real songs. True and crafted songs. There will always be a place for great songs about real people, although they may call it something else in the future….. like classic or traditional.
Where do you see your musical career in 5 years?
International tours and worldwide fan base. A huge catalog of hits and over 200 dates a year thrilling fans.
Are there any instruments you don’t play but wish you did? Why?
I love steel and accordion and I would love to blast a solo on the sax! The sax can be so passionate, I can see myself wailing a sexy sax solo.
What was the best advice you have received?
“Whatever you do, do it with love. The only thing you need is love.”
Where does most of your inspiration come from?
I’m not really sure, my songs come out of conversations or ideas that just pop into my head. I love seeing truly passionate singers and musicians, musicians who seem like they are antennas for the almighty or have a direct broadcast of their souls while playing.
What do you consider to be your first big break in your career so far?
I sure learned a lot from working with publisher Charlie Monk and Butch Waugh. Charlie and RQ productions brought me to Nashville to work with some of the best song writers in the world, it’s really been an amazing experience and really opened my eyes to how to navigate as an artist in a world were most people put “business” before creativity. Because of that opportunity I was able to open for Florida Georgia line, Miranda Lambert and get played on the biggest Radios stations in the country.
What does “California Country” mean to you?
It means great songs with a California edge. The original California Country was a kinda raw and real life alternative to the Nashville sound, today’s California Country is still raw and real but very rockin and guitar driven.
What’s on the horizon for you that you would like to share?
Going out to see a band is all about cutting loose and having a great time. I look forward to more music and more kick ass live shows that get people out of the routine and get people in the moment. Music is the best medicine and I want people to know that when we come to their town it’s about them getting their world rocked. The songs come from my life, but I share things that we’ve all had to deal with. I really like focus on songs that say; let’s have some fun, I love you, I’m heartbroke or its all gonna be alright. Tell everyone I’m coming to their town to give a good time!
Ry Bradley and his band leave for a tour of the south west this week. Check RyBradley.com for tour dates.
Meet Country 