Joe Ryan III

A multi-instrumentalist, singer, rapper, songwriter, producer, and studio engineer, Joe Ryan was born and raised in Flint, Michigan, where he sharpened his musical skills at a church founded by his grandfather. When he was 15, he moved to Madison Heights, closer to Detroit; a basketball star, he earned a scholarship from Tiffin University and enrolled, but he left early to concentrate on music. A major break came when he responded to MC Lyte's request, via Twitter, for upcoming talent. This led to making music for the programs Trey Songz: My Moment and Toya: A Family Affair. His career temporarily stalled, but Motown A&R vice president Rex Rideout granted him access to a studio to help develop his career. Ryan co-wrote two songs, "Missy Doubt" and "Lose Control," for Ledisi's Rideout-assisted 2014 album The Truth. Shortly thereafter, Ryan released his own album; the digital-download release 1879 was released independently, made available through online outlets and streaming services. ~ Andy Kellman