Multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter RYAN returns with his deeply personal and emotional new single, “Summer Nights,” a heartfelt tribute to his late best friend and songwriting partner, Keaton. Blending acoustic pop with singer-songwriter sensibilities, RYAN crafts a poignant soundscape that honors the powerful friendship they shared, offering listeners a deeply reflective and moving experience.
“Summer Nights” holds a special place in RYAN’s heart, as it was co-written with Keaton during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The song captures their close bond, marking a rare creative collaboration between the two. Despite Keaton’s lack of musical experience, he showed an unexpected talent for lyricism, contributing significantly to the song's second verse. The song became a touchstone of their friendship, representing the shared joy and creative spark that fuelled their connection.
The duo brought the song to life during a professional recording session in Austin, Texas, in July 2023. For Keaton, who experienced a studio environment for the first time, the session was a memorable moment, even contributing a playful final touch by playing the triangle in the song's closing moments. Tragically, Keaton passed away a month later, before the song was fully completed. In the wake of this loss, RYAN pushed forward to finish “Summer Nights,” transforming it into a beautiful tribute that captures the essence of their friendship and creative magic.
Musically, “Summer Nights” is rich and textured, featuring an array of legendary musicians. Tommy Taylor’s drums, Mark Andes on bass, and the Mellotron contributions from Mark Hallman add layers of warmth and depth, perfectly complementing RYAN’s acoustic guitar background. The song’s orchestral elements elevate it beyond a simple acoustic track, creating a soundscape that is as emotionally resonant as the story behind it.
In RYAN’s words, “Summer Nights is a reminder of a beautiful friendship I was lucky enough to have for a time. Though there is a fair amount of pain attached to the song for me, I can’t help but smile and marvel at what we accomplished each time I listen to it.” His reflection speaks to the enduring power of love, loss, and creative collaboration.
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