#Risingartist: We chatted with Stacey Ryan about Fall in Love Alone
Stacey Ryan, 21-year old Montreal singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist, has the rare gift of turning heartache into beautiful, bubbly soul-pop ballads. “Fall In Love Alone,” her latest single, was written by Stacey about potentially unrequited love, knowing the other person has a hard time committing and hoping she doesn’t fall in love…alone. Stacey showcases impressive vocal runs and harmonies combined with clever lyricism like, “It’s electric every time we touch/ I’ve been living for this head rush.”
In addition to the single, Stacey shares an acoustic video version of “Fall In Love Alone,” shot at the legendary Henson Studios in Los Angeles, CA. Stacey’s acoustic video highlights everything there is to love about her; haunting vocals, dizzying piano prowess, and a simple elegance behind her performance. The acoustic version juxtaposed with the studio recording shows Stacey’s savvy on the mic — she can get on a straight pop record or a stripped-back song and she will still shine.
Speaking on “Fall In Love Alone,” Stacey says, “‘It’s secretly hoping that the person you’re falling for or developing feelings for is feeling the same way. I wrote this from my own experience last year and having been through it makes the feelings all the more raw & real. The gospel choir type effect throughout the song, the jazzier chord changes, and the lyrics created this different but familiar effect that I think a lot of people will connect to and relate to the song.” We had the chance to chat with Stacey while she was traveling about a few burning questions from the back of our minds.
You mention in a quote that this was based on past experience, do you think this person you may have written about in this song will find out about it?
They actually know the song is about them, I told them. We are both songwriters so we’ve written our fair share of songs about each other.
One of my personal favorites about this song is the choice of using gospel choir style to harmonize the chorus. In the writing process, how did that idea come to the table?
I think first came the melody of the chorus, which follows the chords and the rhythm. Once that was set, the harmonies just fell into place so easily. It’s like they were meant to be there from the start!
Curious to know what was on your playlist while writing this song.
It’s a bit weird, but when I’m writing my own music, I tend to not listen to other music at all. I think I do it subconsciously and don’t really mean to, but all I’m hearing is my own music. I think it helps me really reach into my brain and pull out songs and melodies that are really unique to me. In general though, I’ve been making music and listening to different genres most of my life and I’m sure some of my favorite artists and bands like Al Jarreau, Joni Mitchell, Simon and Garfunkel, Michael Jackson, Lawrence, have inspired my current writing style.
You just got off your first mini-tour with Lawrence, How did it feel to be on tour? Was there anything you expected and was pleasantly surprised by?
Touring was an amazing experience! I loved playing in a different city every night and connecting with a new audience. It was so heartwarming to see the reaction to all my unread Ed music and I’m so happy to know all these people are eagerly awaiting for these songs to drop!! And also, Lawrence are not only an extremely talented band, but are hardworking, genuinely nice people. I’m so happy that they’re my friends now and I look forward to playing with them again soon!
Because we were stalking your Tiktok, would you consider collaborating with Spencer Sutherland on a track?
Oh definitely! He’s such an amazing artist/musician that I could 100% see myself working with in the future!
After the success in popularity with Don’t Text Me When I’m Drunk, how are you feeling about the pressure with this new song out?
It’s definitely a whole other ball park with this song. I knew going into it that it wouldn’t have the same virality as don’t text me when you’re drunk and I think that helped me not have expectations and not get disappointed when the numbers aren’t the same. I’m so proud of Fall in Love Alone and the love it’s received so far!!
What’s next for Stacey Ryan?
More!! I have more music coming soon, headline shows waiting to be announced, a European tour in the fall with Joshua Bassett and so much more!