The eclectically-derived style of Long Beach Island, New Jersey native singer/songwriter, Ryan Zimmerman, was drawn from the influences of acoustic funk, reggae, folk, blues, punk rock and americana. With a focused dedication to his skill as a guitar player, his songwriting, and his live show presence, Ryan embodies the authentic spirit of the indie-musician.
“…his shows reflect his eclectic taste and warm style more akin to a hopped up coffee house performance than a typical bar gig”
If that doesn’t perk your interest in this musical journeyman, you should also know that he’s not only been touring the east coast as a musical troubadour for over a decade, he’s also a promoter for others like him.
Zimmerman’s time in the studio has also been fruitful, and includes the release of 2016’s aptly titled, Working Musician, a soulful, funked-up, acoustic & drum, 11-track ride which includes tracks like, My Dog Is On Bath Salts. (You should check it out.)
Following up Working Musician is 2017’s Ephemeral as a Kiss EP and it’s lead-off single, The Reason. Like a smooth concoction consisting of one part Sublime and one part Jack Johnson, Zimmerman keeps it simple with an acoustic guitar, a funky drum rhythm, and an every-man’s blue collar story of struggle. (Be sure to hangout for the ultra-chill electric solo at about the 2:14 mark.)
“But basically, do what you really want to do, is a more secure gamble, than pretending all the time, about a lot of aughts and shoulds.”
—The Reason (intro)
There’s always been—and there’s always going to be—something very special and intriguing about singer/songwriters who’ve mastered the art of explaining their grind; and one gets the feeling that this is all non-fiction for Ryan Zimmerman…
“There’s some reason, why I get by
I don’t understand it, I don’t ask why
Reasons are nothing to make me lose my mind
I’ll never make a fortune, but lord, I’ll try”
Whose lovechild…?
Sublime meets Jack Johnson…
BELOW: Listen to Ryan Zimmerman’s song, The Reason, and connect with his website and social media platforms. Please support Ryan Zimmerman by visiting him online, and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing his music. And, as always, thank you for supporting real music!