Bobby Ryan is a bassist and singer-songwriter whose versatility, and willingness to explore new avenues of music, has allowed him to play all across the Oklahoma music scene’s broad spectrum of talent.  

Recently BR has had the opportunity to collaborate with artists such as Red Dirt heavyweight Jason Boland, of Jason Boland and the Stragglers, and Malford Milligan, of the famed Texas blues act Storyville.  In addition to these collaborations, BRL has had the opportunity to work with and open for many “greats” of all genres including Hank III, Poison, and Junior Brown.

You can hear BR on many albums, such as Oklahoma metal band Zendozer’s 2005 self-titled release, Texas country act Red River Mudcat’s 2007 self-titled release, and Branson act Carrigan Bradley’s debut release.  You can also hear BR thumping the upright bass at the “Oklahoma CowPunk” originator’s (Red Eye Gravy) performances, as well as holding down the electric bass duties for the Texas/Oklahoma act Jeff Hobbs & The Jacks.

Currently he is working on Red Eye Gravy’s sophomore release, playing with the Texas Country act Jeff Hobbs and the Jacks, and attending the ACM@UCO(Academy of Contemporary Music at the University of Central Oklahoma) studying bass performance.

BR was born into a very musical family.  His cousin, Amy Lee(of Evanescence) has had a very successful career as a vocalist, also, Gene Callier, known for writing the Red Dirt staple Boy’s from Oklahoma, was married in to BRL’s family.  BR credits the church for allowing him to improve his skills as an all around musician.  He began singing in church at age 10, and assumed the roll as bassist at age 12.  Upon graduating high school BR attended Northeastern State University for a brief stint.  He quickly realized that his place was with an instrument and on a stage.  While attending NSU, BR was asked to join the newly forming band Red Eye Gravy.  While playing with REG, he was noticed by the Texas touring act Red River Mudcat’s, and was asked to join them on the road.  BRL traveled with the band for 10 months before returning to Oklahoma and re-joining with Red Eye Gravy.  The opportunity for BRL to pursue a degree in bass guitar presented itself via ACM@UCO, and he jumped at the chance. While attending class, BR has had the opportunity to collaborate with many talented up-and-coming artists, and has become involved with the Oklahoma City music scene as a session artist and writer.  

bobbyryanmusic