Interview: Serena Ryder

We had the pleasure of interviewing Serena Ryder recently to talk about her music, her fashion, and the advice given to her from her peers. Here’s what she had to say:

You had an interesting road that lead you to Atlantic Records? Can you talk a little bit about your journey from starting out until now?

Serena Ryder: My mom was a gogo dancer and backup singer- my uncle an amazing folk musician. I started singing when I was 2 years old and I haven’t stopped. I got a guitar when I was 13 and it was a done deal. I was performing at open stages, ballgames, schoolyards, anywhere really, and it led me to an amazing manager and an amazing label.

How would you say you’ve evolved musically since you started up?

Serena Ryder: I got better.

Which one of your songs is the most personal or the most meaningful to you? Why?

Serena Ryder: It’s personal. Really though, it doesn’t matter what I think about my songs, or what the songs mean to me or mean for me. It’s what the listeners think, however they relate to them or whatever they think the song means. That’s what they mean.

If you had to describe your album “is it o.k.” in three words, what would they be?

Serena Ryder: It is o.k

What has been your most memorable performance to date?

Serena Ryder: Singing a song with the Great Lake Swimmers opening up for Robert Plant and Alison Kraus

You performed on bills with really diverse bands from Aerosmith or Cheap Trick. Was there any group or artist that you met that left a really strong impression on you or gave you any really sound advice for your career?

Serena Ryder: Steve Earle -“stop drinking so much”

I also wanted to ask you about your fashion, you seem to have a kind of vintage bohemian vibe from a lot of your photos which is awesome! Would you say that’s your personal style? Where are your favorite places to shop?

Serena Ryder: I’d say that’s about right. I like to shop at second hand stores for the most part.

When you’re not working on music, what are your favorite things to do? Any must see television series?

Serena Ryder: I like hanging with my friends, eating and sleeping. I don’t have a television.

What’s next for you?

Serena Ryder: Touring for the next few years… lots and lots of touring.

Interview By: Emma Loggins

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