We talked to Ryan Hamilton about his latest album Hell of a Day, a power pop and “sunny singer songwriter” gem. Let’s hear what he has to say about covering REO Speedwagon, working with Linus of Hollywood,  greedy assholes and touring with Ginger Wildheart.

 

What was the biggest fun during the making of the last album?

 

The whole thing was such a fun experience, it’s hard to pick one particular moment. But I recorded the album in California with my friend Linus Of Hollywood. I think that’s my favorite thing about the making of the album.

I would have to say Freak Flag. It’s got a cool mix of pop, singer songwriter, and rock n roll. Plus, the subject matter is very close to my heart. We should all be free to enjoy being ourselves. Even if we are weird, or “nerds” etc… Unfortunately, we live in a society dominated by the internet… and bullies can hide behind computer screens.

I don’t mention REO Speedwagon as one of my favorite bands on a daily basis? What about you? Actually I like them a lot. What about the cover?

 

They seem to be one of those bands that people never take too seriously. But they have so many great songs! I think “Take It On The Run” is one of the all time great love songs. I had wanted to cover it for a long time… and this solo album gave me the opportunity. I really like the chilled out, darker direction we took it.

The music industry is full of greedy assholes. I got burned REALLY bad by some people who were supposed to be my “friends”. People who I thought I could trust. People who were supposed to be looking out for me and helping me build and nurture my career. But really, they were just interested in themselves. If it didn’t benefit THEM they didn’t care what I had to say. Even went out of their way to talk shit and try to make things more difficult for me. It was terrible.

So, what did the changes in the music industry bring me? It brought me my freedom. Things like Kickstarter and/or PledgeMusic give artists like me the opportunity to break out on my own and leave those greedy assholes behind. I LOVE IT!

The Black Crowes – Twice As Hard

Tom Petty – Free Fallin’

The Rolling Stones – Honky Tonk Women

Paolo Nutini – Coming Up Easy

David Bowie – Rebel Rebel

If she doesn’t go or it after THAT, she wasn’t worth dating anyway. Haha!

Going on tour in the UK, supporting Ginger Wildheart. Then off to Scotland to record a new album!

Check Ryan’s website for updates

Buy Hell of a Day here or buy a vinyl copy here