Shiver is a heavy one for me. The song interprets a tragic event that occurred in my teenage years: a middle-of-the-night canoe accident that resulted in the drowning of one of my closest friends.

It's the first time I've written about this subject in a way that feels like it captures -- for me -- a fraction of what living through that period felt like. I hope it touches you in some way.

I'm so grateful for the truly talented and inspiring Detroit-based musicians that helped bring this song to life: 

- Ashley Nelson // Violin  
- Jasmine James // Cello
- Bryan Pope // String Arrangement 
- Jake Shives // Audio Engineering and Production

Much love.
RT

Shiver

Don't Let Them In

Debut single from the forthcoming Floodlight EP.

Please Don't Find Me

In the 1988 Franklin tee-ball all-star game, we were losing 15-2 in the 3rd inning. The other team was giddy. I was suicidal. Toby, my grandmother, saw me. She sat down next to me and said, “Ryan, this game is not over. You can still win. ” Everything in my body resisted it, but I sensed it was possible that she could be right. We end up winning 27-24 and I’ve never forgotten it.  

Toby, this one’s for you. Wherever you are. 

--
Written and Performed by Ryan Trager
Produced and Engineered by John Katona 
Dobro: Dave Falk
Analog Synth: John Katona
Organ: Bryan Pope
Production Assist: Tom Mihalis
Mastered by Adrian Morgan @ Timeless Mastering