Meet Ryan Cross

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ryan Cross.

Ryan, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I am a Seattle born musician who began playing classical music on the cello. I came from a family of brothers who are virtuoso classical musicians. We would play name that tunes with Symphonies. I followed in my brother’s footsteps along the way until I was encouraged to play Bass in the Jazz band by the director Scott Brown of the award winning Roosevelt High School.

After traveling to Montreux Jazz Festival and North Sea Jazz Fest in that first year with the band, I was hooked. I came to Los Angeles on a scholarship to the Jazz Department at USC and hadn’t looked back since. I still play cello, appearing on such shows as American Idol, The Voice, and Dancing with the Stars. The bass is what people know me for. I have been a part of some of the most iconic jazz Nights in town. Sunday Jazz Night at Guy’s back in the day, W Jazz Night and now leading the band at Delilah and Sofitel Hotel. I have had the privilege to share the stage with Stevie Wonder, Prince, Rihanna, Justin Bieber, John Mayer, Wynton Marsalis, and Arturo Sandoval. I have recorded on the Grammy award-winning Lemonade by Beyoncé. As well as recorded with Alicia Keys, Neil Young and Macy Gray. I produce several live events around town featuring my band Jazz Eclectic. My focus is to spread as much joy through music. I currently reside in Highland Park but have not yet played in the growing music scene here.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
As all artists, it was a struggle to make a good living to start but with the support of so many people, I am now thriving. Covid put a pause on playing live for six months but we are finally starting back again.

Can you give our readers some background on your music?
Ryan Cross Presents continues to produce the most exciting music nights in Los Angeles. We specialize in providing elite talent for the highest-profile guests. Our A list clients, international events and local hotspots are all treated to the same high energy shows.

So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I look forward to creating a new recording project with Jazz Eclectic and traveling the world to share the joy.

Contact Info:

• Website: ryancrosspresents.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: Instagram.com/ryancrossmusic
• Facebook: Facebook.com/jazzeclecticband

Image Credit:
Jason Abraham – Aircam

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