Ryan Oetken

Ryan Oetken is a West Coast native, born and raised in Wilsonville, Oregon. Pursuing musical interests, he moved to Nashville, Tennessee in 2011 to collaborate with established songwriters and further his music career. Now gaining recognition from well-respected industry professionals, Ryan is continually developing his skills as an artist and a songwriter. “Growing up on the West Coast had a huge influence on me musically, and you can hear it in my songs,” he says. “I’ve always loved songs that told stories and created memorable images in your mind, that is what drove me to country music.” Ryan currently attends Belmont University, which is the home to some notable alumni including; Brad Paisley, Josh Turner, Lee Ann Womack, Pam Tillis, Sarah Buxton, Trisha Yearwood, and Florida Georgia Line. Ryan recently recorded his debut EP “Start to Wonder” with acclaimed Nashville producer Chris Utley. The EP offers a diverse blend of songs ranging from up-tempo feel good songs to slow immaculate ballads. Along with production credit, Ryan also wrote or co-wrote all of the songs on the EP. “This EP has been a long time in the making, but I’m very satisfied with the way it turned out,” Ryan says. “The best part for me is getting to play the songs live and see the fans reactions. When you can stimulate an emotion in someone with a song you wrote, that’s a beautiful thing.” The project includes the rising country single “Sun Sets On Summer,” co-written with award-winning songwriter Steve Dean, who’s string of number one hits include, “Watching You,” by Rodney Atkins, "Round About Way," by George Strait, "Walk On," by Reba McEntire, and "Southern Star," by Alabama. “Crossing Tan Lines,” the second single off “Start to Wonder” caught the attention of Nashville producer and songwriter Jeff Stevens, who currently produces the reigning 2013 ACM entertainer of the year Luke Bryan. The diversity of his debut EP offers impactful material that resonates with listeners of all ages. While appealing to a wide demographic, Ryan has woven together a collection of songs that honor his musical heroes—Lynyrd Skynyrd, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, and Steve Miller Band. His live show reflects a youthful enthusiasm that endures to captivate listeners. Ryan is currently on tour playing fairs and festivals up and down the West Coast with a band of top-notch musicians. "Start To Wonder" now available on iTunes. https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/start-to-wonder-ep/id674875651