Today we’d like to introduce you to Ryan Chew.
Hi Ryan, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My interest in music started around age six. I was heavily involved in my school’s choir. About four years later, I began learning to play the piano by ear. I started directing the youth band at my church at 15 years old and directing the children, youth, & young adult choir at 18 years old. From 9-18, the passion for songwriting was slowly being developed while being involved in the church and local music scene. Going to college (Berklee School of Music) as a songwriting major gave me clear direction on how to grow as a writer/producer.
At 20, I released my 1st single, and at 21 I released my first album, both under a group called Unified. I always felt called to write songs for the church, so I began to hone in on that more after my first few projects. Now, at 26 I am a sought-after up-and-coming writer in Christian & gospel music. I have written amazing music for myself, other local artists and have gained the attention of Grammy award-winning artists. I just recently had my 4th live recording anticipated to start releasing this fall.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has really been a journey. I have a very diverse church background. I didn’t go to an all-black church my whole life. A lot of my early Christian roots come from the Christian school I attended in elementary & part of middle school, where we had chapel every Wednesday. This is where I grew a love for the music I make today. When I started directing at the church I went to on Sundays, the way I led and my musical choices was not always welcomed. I felt like a black sheep, I wanted to be accepted so I tried to fit in the best way I could. It wasn’t until I left where I really started to find myself as an artist and a worship leader. Even though I felt out of place at my home church, part of the foundation of who I am musically comes from my experiences there. It also gave me tough skin!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am an artist, worship leader, and producer. I am a worship pastor at a church in Alexandria, VA. I am mainly known for my artistry. The songs I sing and write for others are written so that other churches can take them to their worship/praise teams and share with their churches. Because I am also very relational, I’m not just known in the church scene but in other musical circles as well. I have been granted many opportunities because I am very open-minded when it comes to creativity.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Be yourself in every room you’re in.
Contact Info:
- Website: Dependonchrist.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/ryanxchew
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCOintsYsv8pFW3ODOKbTEDg
Image Credits:
Karena DeMerchant
