Establishing the mood with a timeless alternative rock soundscape, Ryan Sweezey opens The One Up There with situational prose and cinematic allure as he takes us on a familiar journey with the words, “Got my ticket in my hand, I’m going out to see the band, give the phone a scan, check ID, wristband, and through the double doors to the promised land, the lights go down, and here comes that gorgeous sound…”
In essence, The One Up There expands to remind us of the thrill of live music. Ryan describes the excitement of entering the venue, seeing the band walk on stage and singing along. The atmosphere is full of energy, and the music makes the night feel magical. This truly taps into the notion of why we love live music as a collective, and how important it still is.
As the show goes on, Ryan starts to dream about being the one performing. He imagines himself on stage, leading the crowd, and creating the same joy that he is experiencing – an artist’s dream! He longs to trade places with the band and feel the power of connecting with people through his music, and that is just what Ryan Sweezey is now doing – manifestation is real!
The song also showcases notions of determination and hope. He shows us how it is never too late to chase one’s dream. He sees his future self up on stage, sharing his words and raw emotion with an audience. The One Up There is about holding onto ambition, no matter your age, and believing that the dream of being “the one up there” can still come true.
Speaking on the release, Ryan confesses, “The idea of this song came about while attending a concert by the band JOSEPH. The most heavy influence to the music itself is Motion City Soundtrack – influencing the soaring vocals, melody, and energetic guitar.”
He adds, “I often attend concerts and daydream about being the one on stage. Nothing strengthens my resolve to keep performing and pursuing a music career than being in the crowd at another show and imagining the roles being reversed.”
The One Up There serves as a snapshot of an artist who is fully immersed in his craft. The passion for his artistry is tangible, and this authenticity is what we need to experience more of in the world. He is showing us how music and artistry are escapism, and this feels zeitgeist and important. As the fourth release leading into his upcoming album Maybe Magic, The One Up There cements Ryan’s place as a DIY artist who continues to expand his sound while staying true to his roots.
We have added The One Up There to our New Music Spotlight playlist, and our TIMELESS playlist, whilst we continue to stream his wider discography, including Unwell, Sleepless Nights, and Saying Something.