Ryland James creates a sound that feels like a bridge between classic soul sensibilities and the sleek, high-definition production of modern pop. His music is defined by a sense of earnestness, often starting with a sparse piano or guitar foundation before erupting into massive, multi-layered choruses. It is the kind of music that fills a room without being aggressive, relying on melodic clarity and emotional resonance.
What truly distinguishes him is his vocal athleticism. He possesses a remarkable ability to transition from a grounded, conversational baritone to a crystalline falsetto that feels effortless. There is a distinct gospel influence in how he stacks his harmonies, giving even his most radio-ready tracks a spiritual, communal weight. He avoids the cynicism often found in modern pop, opting instead for a vulnerable, heart-on-sleeve approach.
Start with 'In My Head' to hear his breakthrough blend of rhythmic pop and soul, or 'Shoulder to Cry On' if you want to experience his capacity for pure, stripped-back balladry. His self-titled EP serves as the best comprehensive look at his range, moving from danceable grooves to quiet, introspective moments.
Ryland James Clark (born 1999), known professionally as Ryland James, is a Canadian pop singer from Deseronto, Ontario, whose self-titled debut EP was released in 2020. As a teenager, he was a competitor on the seventh and final season of The Next Star in 2014, finishing in fifth place. Professionally, he uses his middle name as his stage surname, so as to avoid potential confusion with British singer and presenter Rylan Clark. He released his debut single "Good to You" in 2017, and followed up in 2019 with "Say Goodbye" and his breakthrough hit "In My Head". Through 2019, he toured as an opening act for Alessia Cara on her The Pains of Growing Tour; in February 2020, his fourth single "Shoulder to Cry On" was released. His self-titled EP was released in August 2020, and was followed in December by the Christmas release A Little Christmas. James received two Juno Award nominations at the Juno Awards of 2021, for Pop Album of the Year and Breakthrough Artist of the Year. He came out as queer in February 2021. He sang the Canadian national anthem at the 2022 NBA All-Star Game. In 2023, he participated in an all-star recording of Serena Ryder's single "What I Wouldn't Do", which was released as a charity single to benefit Kids Help Phone's Feel Out Loud campaign for youth mental health.
Shares contemporary r&b, soul, dance-pop (subgenres); studio polished, hi fi, layered dense (production style)
Shares studio polished, hi fi, layered dense (production style); contemporary r&b, soul (subgenres)
Shares contemporary r&b, soul, dance-pop (subgenres); studio polished, hi fi, layered dense (production style)
Shares contemporary r&b, soul, dance-pop (subgenres); vulnerable, hopeful, romantic (moods)
Shares contemporary r&b, soul, dance-pop (subgenres); studio polished, hi fi, layered dense (production style)
Shares contemporary r&b, soul, dance-pop (subgenres); studio polished, hi fi, layered dense (production style)
Shares studio polished, hi fi, layered dense (production style); contemporary r&b, soul (subgenres)
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