Ryan Keen releases debut album Room For Light this week, so FFS caught up with the South Devon singer to find out more.
Hello, please introduce yourself and your music to the uninitiated.
I’m a singer/songwriter from Devon, currently living in London. My songwriting is fairly traditional but I play a style of guitar called ‘percussive finger style’ which incorporates elements of flamenco.
Tell us a bit about your new record.
The latest single is called ‘Old Scars’ which is taken from my forthcoming debut album ‘Room For Light’
What was your best ever gig?
It’s hard to pick a specific one, I’ve worked and gigged with some of my favourite artists over the last few years which has been incredible, but I think the best feeling is at my own gigs when there’s people I’ve never seen before singing along to every word of a song that I’ve written in my bedroom. Its an amazing and humbling thing.
What’s the worst thing about being a musician?
For me I don’t really dislike any of it, the main thing thats tough i guess is being exhausted and being broke.
What inspires you?
Everything, life experiences – be it good or bad.
If you won a billion pounds what would you do with it?
Start my own charities, start my own record label, and buy all my family and friends houses.
Out of your songs: which is your favourite?
It’s normally the most recent song I’ve written! I’m still really happy with a song called ‘Know About Me’.
What are your plans for the future?
This year I’ll be touring UK and Ireland, next year the album is being released internationally so there will be much more touring! Then onto album 2!
Finally, we’re always looking to expand our musical horizons. Do you have any recommendations of bands or artists we should be looking out for?
Jakob Banks, Sam Brookes and Fiona Bevan