Multi-instrumentalist and singer/songwriter RYAN has released his most personal and emotionally charged single to date, Summer Nights, a tender tribute to his late best friend and songwriting partner, Keaton. Blending singer/songwriter sensibilities with acoustic pop, the track is not only a musical gem but a deeply poignant ode to friendship, loss, and the creative bond between two souls.
Originally conceived during the COVID-19 pandemic when RYAN and Keaton were roommates, Summer Nights captures the magic of a collaboration that blossomed unexpectedly. Though Keaton had no prior experience in songwriting, his lyrical contributions—particularly the entire second verse—became integral to the track’s development. The song itself became a cornerstone of their friendship, representing the shared joy and camaraderie between the two.
Recorded professionally in Austin, TX, in July 2023, Summer Nights marks the last project Keaton worked on before his untimely passing. In what would become a bittersweet memory, Keaton not only witnessed his creation come to life in a professional studio but also left his own musical imprint, playing the triangle in the song’s final moments. His sudden passing just a month later left RYAN grappling with grief, yet determined to finish the song as a tribute to their bond.
Summer Nights stands as a beautiful testament to friendship, the fleeting nature of life, and the power of music to heal and immortalize cherished memories. RYAN’s artistry shines through in every note, and this single is sure to touch the hearts of anyone who listens. As fans eagerly await more music from this talented artist, Summer Nights is a powerful reminder of the bonds we hold dear and the legacy we leave behind.
