Stephan Ryder

Heavy Is the Crown is a tribute to the everyday working man — the unsung hero who gets up before sunrise, pushes through pain without applause, and carries the weight of a family on his back.

He may not wear gold or sit on a throne, but to his loved ones, he’s a king.

This song is for the welders, farmers, truckers, builders — the men who show up, day after day, without asking for credit. Because real strength doesn’t shout. It works.

Written by: Steven Walter Cwiak
Performed by: Stephen Ryder

For licensing or pitching inquiries, contact: stephen@ryder.productions

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Heavy Is The Crown

“Barstool Prophet” is a smoky sermon from the darker side of the neon glow.Blending the grit of Waylon Jennings with the unfiltered truth of Charles Bukowski, this outlaw-country blues track spits wisdom from the bottom of a glass. It’s part confessional, part comedy, and all soul — a tongue-in-cheek gospel for the bruised and barbound.

Barstool Prophet

“Riders of the Road” is a cinematic outlaw country ballad, paying heartfelt tribute to The Highwaymen—Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson. With deep baritone vocals, acoustic storytelling, and a slow-burning rhythm, the song honors their legacy as legends who carved their truth into every mile of the open road. A timeless journey through rebellion, brotherhood, and the fire that never dies.

Riders of the Road

“This Ain’t Goodbye (It’s Just a Song)” by Stephen Ryder is a tender, heart-worn ballad that captures the pain of love left unspoken and the quiet hope that lingers through music. With aching lyrics and a soulful country delivery, Ryder turns a lost note, an empty driveway, and a jukebox hum into a story of holding on without pretending to be okay. This is the kind of goodbye you don’t say — you sing.

It’s Just A Song

Broken Wings (Remix)

Strut is a song about finding the courage to stop hiding and walk tall. It’s a story of rising from the mud, holding your head high, and owning every step forward. It’s about proof — proof that after all the struggles, you can still stand proud and unshaken.

Strut

Stephen Ryder is a country artist with a storyteller’s heart, weaving real-life experiences into heartfelt, powerful songs. His music blends traditional country with modern influences, creating songs that speak to love, life, and the journey in between. 

With a growing catalog of music, Stephen continues to share songs that resonate with listeners, whether it’s a heartfelt ballad, a foot-stomping anthem, or a reflective tune about life’s unexpected roads. His dedication to authenticity and storytelling makes his music a perfect fit for country radio and beyond. Follow me on Spotify!  

https://open.spotify.com/artist/60jKjrPsJ9Z43m0qF60S74?si=ayZTWLy5T5udCZ1y1hhYlA