When Ryan Farish released Spectrum, I was blown away with how chill the album made me feel… Every song just put me in a trance, and this is an album that I could listen to over and over again and always discover something new and hear something unique. Then I got the chance to interview him. Since the interview he’s released a new single titled “Skyline” and is redefining the meaning of what “chill” really means. It is an honor to to meet and to introduce you to Ryan Farish. This was a fun interview… Enjoy!
You have a new single out titled “Skyline.” That is actually what prompted this interview, but I’ve been a fan since you released Spectrum. Anyway, tell me more about the single.
Thanks so much, Ricky. I’ve been working hard on my next album, and “Skyline” will be a part of the upcoming album. This new song really captures where I’m at musically at the moment, and I’m excited about that, so I wanted to share this song with everyone while I’m still working on my next album.
Anand Harsh recently said, “Ryan Farish is challenging the notion of what ‘chill’ electronica can be.” That being said, how do you define “chill” electronica and do you agree that you are challenging this notion?
It really made me so happy to hear those words from The Untz. I’ve always had a lot of respect for them and how they are tuned into more than just the surface of electronic music. As far as challenging the genre, I don’t think I’ve ever given it much thought, actually. It’s not like I set out on a mission to challenge any genre, but I am always challenging myself musically, and asking myself what I can do to bring a unique “voice’ to my music, and how I can continue to grow as an artist and producer. Check this out though, perhaps sometimes it’s just that kind of authenticity and being true to the artist within that ends up pushing a genre’s boundaries. I think the softer side, or chill electronic music, is finally seeing the exposure many have been hoping it would one day. Sometimes the softer side of any genre is where the deepest creativity lies, and where there’s an opportunity to deeply communicate musical ideas and feelings with the notes, melodies, etc.
As you said, you are in the middle of production on your next studio album. Any idea what that is going to be called, and any idea when it will be ready?
I do have a working title, but I’d rather not say just yet, in case I change my mind at some point. As far as a release date, haven’t gotten that far yet because I’m only half way done, and these days I spend a ridiculous amount of time getting all the details just right. So, I don’t want to make any promises yet on a release date. It’s safe to say sometime later this year.
You have a ton of views on YouTube and millions of listens on Pandora and Spotify. Did you ever think your music would speak to so many people?
I appreciate all the great support from the fans, and the listeners on Pandora over the years, and all the wonderful fan videos on YouTube. For me, it puts the meaning into why I do music when I see all of this. I didn’t really focus on speaking to so many people as I have focused about speaking to the “one” that really connects to my music. I never really gave it much thought, actually. I try not to stay up to date on the numbers, or what’s popular or not. I don’t want any of that to influence or play a part to distract me from the pure flow of creativity.
Tell me about your experience playing the Neon Carnival at Coachella.
It was awesome. Google Play brought me there and gave me that opportunity, and I had a great time. Afrojack was in the audience and some other celebrities… So it was fun to see all the hype of that event, and be able to enjoy that night with everyone there.
What is your favorite song on Spectrum?
It’s really hard to pick just one, but if I had to I’d say “Days Ahead.” I feel like that song really captured exactly where I was as an artist in that moment of time… When I finished that song, I really felt it was special for me.
You have released several studio albums over the years. How has your sound progressed since releasing Beautiful, your debut studio album?
I’ve always believed in sharing my music and art, where it is in the moment in time that it’s happening. Looking back, the Beautiful album is something I’m really proud of. It was one of the purest expressions of my music. It was created in a time for me of growing, and with the innocent hope and anticipation of embarking on a career as a recording artist. My music from that period is actually inspiring me to this day and absolutely found its way back into Spectrum, and the new upcoming album, for sure.
Your sound reminds me a lot of BT. Have you had the chance to work with him over the years?
No, I haven’t. He was definitely an inspiration to me early on.
Past BT, who are some of your biggest influences?
Coldplay, Above & Beyond, Seven Lions, Tycho, U2 and ATB.
Who did the album artwork for Spectrum?
My long time friend Solarsoul, who is a very talented musician as well as graphic design artist.
I want to hear your songs in movies, in video games, and on other YouTube videos. Has that happened, and what is the process if I wanted to use your music in a YouTube video I produced?
Yes, my songs have been licensed many times for all kinds of spots in commercials, radio advertising like for the movie Despicable Me 2, and of course YouTube. If you wanted to use my music in your YouTube video, it is pretty easy to do. There are lots of fan videos, which don’t require permission. If you had a product or a commercial, then you just contact us for a license from my website. It’s really easy and simple. At this point we’ve really got the process down and have streamlined it.
Tell me more about Positive Chillout.
Positive Chillout is my way of quickly explaining to someone who isn’t that familiar with all the derivative genres of electronic music. See, if you only think “dance music” when you think of electronic music, you might think what is this, is this world music, new age? No, it’s chill, and for the most part it’s uplifting… Positive.
Any plans for a tour in 2016?
I don’t think so, I’m playing The Untz Festival in Mariposa, California on June 3rd, but I’m a studio creature at the moment.
What’s next for Ryan Farish?
More music, singles, albums and remixes, and possibly more live shows if I can ever get out of the studio to play them.
Thank you for doing this. In all of the interviews I do, I always give the artist the last word. Go.
Thank you, Ricky, it was a pleasure!
Connect with Ryan Farish:
Website: http://www.ryanfarish.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ryanfarishofficial
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ryanfarish
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/ryanfarish
