Exclusive Premiere: Watch Ryan Hicks’ New Love Letter to Live Music with “Experience”

By: Staff –

Regina, Saskatchewan-based alt-pop singer-songwriter Ryan Hicks is back with his new love letter to live music in the form of his new single “Experience”. Watch the new music video exclusively via Aesthetic Magazine below.

“Experience” was inspired by Hicks’ own experience at a Father John Misty, Jason Isabel and Jade Bird concert in Minneapolis. After that show, he made a promise to himself that if he was able to play live music and go to shows again he would never take them for granted.

“The last few years have been challenging,” says Hicks. “In that time, I had time to look at myself and what I want for a future. I want to be a part of a world where we care for each other and where all are welcome. I also realized how important live music is to me. This song is looking forward to new experiences and not taking them or anyone for granted.”

Hicks makes melodic, cinematic, alt-pop music – as if Paul McCartney, Brian Wilson, and Fleet Foxes made music for David Lynch. Hicks is a singer- songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer from Regina, SK. He cites influences as Ron Sexsmith, Father John Misty, and David Bowie. In addition to over 20 years of experience in music performance, he has both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Music Education.

While studying vocal performance at The University of Regina, Hicks maintained a tenor position with the U of R Chamber Choir, winning numerous national awards including the CBC National Choir Competition, and the title of “Chamber Choir of The World” in Eistedfod, Wales in 1997. He also spent 14 years with the Regina Celtic Band, Squeeze of Scotch, performing at events such as The Scotties Tournament of Hearts. Squeeze of Scotch were also invited to score music for the 2008 CBC mini-series, The Englishman’s Boy. He is now a successful music teacher, experienced in writing and arranging choral and instrumental parts.

Hicks released his first album in 2014 and followed up in 2018 with the release of his self- produced record titled Pulsing Colours. In 2019 Hicks released his self-produced LP, titled Dreams, which was mixed by Juno-Award winning producer, Philip Wojewoda (The Jerry Cans, Buffy Sainte Marie, Barenaked Ladies).

Hicks’ new studio album, Experience, is set for release on March 24th, 2023, and was co-produced by Jon Anderson and Hicks. Hicks worked on the songs on his new album for three years through the pandemic and the album is a reflection of his experiences. The album features ten original new songs all written by Hicks. He traveled to BC to record the album earlier this year and features Hicks and Anderson on all instruments as well as drummer Tristan Helgason and vocalist Cynthia Peyson-Wahl.