Ryz eyes global stardom - Budding star builds own studio to chase music dreams

Blending vivid storytelling with smooth, melodic rhythms, emerging dancehall artiste Ryz has set his sights firmly on international stardom.

"My music is melody-driven - I ensure that strong vocals and melodies are key aspects of what I do. I try to make my sound be like a crossover, because I see myself going international," the up-and-coming entertainer said.

He told THE STAR that instead of focusing and singing "chopping music", he tries to makes sure his music has a compelling story to which audiences can relate.

"I try to tell the stories as they are, ensure that they are worded properly, and use the melodies to carry the stories as well, so it's a good listen," he added.

Ryz recorded his first official single, I Will Rise, in 2019. However, despite his enthusiasm, it took a full year before he was able to record another track. After months of daily visits to a studio with no progress, he made the bold decision to build his own studio - a move he says transformed his career.

Now under the management of Carleonie Entertainment, the former recording label of dancehall star Popcaan, Ryz believes he is better positioned than ever to share his melodies, charm and authenticity with audiences worldwide.

Though having his own studio gives him the freedom to work on his craft at any time, Ryz acknowledges that the road hasn't been without obstacles.

"I won't say there aren't challenges, but at the end of the day, the challenges are what makes it worth it. For example, I was trying to be an artiste for a specific studio, it didn't work out, and now I have a studio. So, life leads to betterment, so you just have to find your own way. It's just a step closer to another step, and it makes you stronger at the end of the day," he reasoned.

Describing his style as a fusion of dancehall and international R&B, Ryz explained that his signature smooth sound stems from an early understanding of melodies.

" I'm not really into singing about violence and stuff like that, and it's because of the background that I have. So growing up, I've always been a ladies' man, so I just stick to what I know," he shared with a smile.

Ryz spent his earlier days in the vibrant inner-city community of Seaview Gardens, St Andrew, before relocating to Clarendon where he attended Denbigh High School. He established himself as a dancer and even showcased his talents on the popular TV competition, Dancin' Dynamites, as part of the group Crazy Kids.

"During high school, I used to leave school early and go to other schools to perform. But it was interesting because I was being paid for it," he recalled.

Those high school gigs gave Ryz the opportunity to develop his stagecraft. He also honed his musical abilities by playing drums and singing in his church choir. Over time, influenced by the music of Vybz Kartel, Afrobeat star Rema, Dexta Daps and others, Ryz found his passion slowly shifting from choreographing to crafting lyrics.

"I haven't given up the dancing totally because it's supm natural suh mi still have it, but music is something that flows through me, suh I can't really help it," said Ryz, whose given name is Raheem Webster.

Determined to create music that stands the test of time, Ryz hopes to forge deeper connections with listeners. He believes his international sound, combined with his creativity and relentless drive, will ensure his lasting impact on the music industry.

"Making timeless music is more of doing what the people dem want ... It is a competitive space, so finding my unique sound and style and then delivering it will surely separate me from other talents," the Scarecrow lyricist said.

He recently released a sultry single, Moment, and has vowed to continue serenading the ladies with a steady stream of upcoming songs.