Every musical community or clique includes one or more musicians who are always there and available to back others in playing and recording their songs – while quietly hiding their own songwriting light under a bushel. Christchurch’s Ryan Chin is just such a musician, able to fill almost any instrumental gap, in almost any band it would seem. Now in 2020, and performing as Ryan Fisherman, he has released The Price, a melancholic song that’s a headlight to an album due out later this year, and features on NZ On Air‘s NewTracks compilation for February.

What’s your given name, where are you from and what instruments do you play?

Ryan Chin is my full name. I am from Christchurch and currently play the drums, bass, guitar, synth, lap steel and vocals – in various bands.

Was any high school or other music training especially important to you?

Ummm, I went to Cashmere High which had an amazing music department. Very helpful and supportive.

Any other projects might we know you from?

Maybe…. past bands /artists include Doprah, Nakey, Emily Fairlight, Fraser Ross and Blair Parkes. Currently, I play with Ben Woods, Katie Thompson, Adam Hattaway & The Haunters plus my own band. I also produced, mixed and played on an album called ‘Lemon’ Law by Mousey.

Who else is directly involved in your music team?

My live band includes my good friends Simon Gregory, Ben Ordering, AJ Park and Elmore Jones. The studio band added my friends Joe McCallum, Anita Clark, Indira Force, Matt Gunn, Adam Hattaway, Rata Holtslag, Jack Lane, Marlon Williams, Paddy Long, Symon Palmer, Abi Macilquham, Josh Petrie, Candice Milner, Jack Montgomery, Jess Shanks and Flora Knight!

How has your writing/music evolved to where it’s at now?

Short and sweet is my new approach!

How did you come up with the name for the new project?

Fisherman started as a nickname which became my anything-music-related name, haha!

Aside from this release, what’s been your musical highlight to date?

My time in Doprah was an amazing experience. Great gigs and tours meeting lots of other musicians!

What makes The Price stand out for you as a single?

It’s a breakup song…

What is the story behind The Price?

It’s a breakup song haha!

What’s your favourite moment, musical or lyrical, of the single?

There is a wee lap steel lick at the end of the song that I just really enjoy!

Who did you record/produce the single with, and where?

It started off as a bedroom demo that I took to my friend Ben Edwards. We recorded it at The Sitting Room along with the rest of my album. I worked closely with Ben on the project, he produced and mixed it all. The rest I do independently. It was recorded over three years ago… it took me a while to get round to releasing it, haha.

What would you like listeners to take away from this song?

Life goes on.

How do you generally work out what song would make a good single?

Ummm not sure tbh. I just pick the ones that feel good to me.

Who else is in your team (ie. producer, management, label, publicity etc.?) – 

Are there any other musical endeavours you’re working on that we should keep an eye out for?

I am about to go into the studio with the Haunters to start work on their next record. I will also be touring with Ben Woods at some point this year (he loves touring). I also plan to release my debut album in May this year!

Can you name three other local tunes that would fit well on a playlist alongside your song.

Romancy – Ben Woods
If You Really Love Me – Mousey
Crooks – Sam Flynn Scott

Any previous NZOA applications not gained funding or been included on NewTracks? Any advice?

I haven’t received funding for my own music before. This was also the first time a song of mine was selected for NewTracks. My advice is just to keep applying!

Are there any musical blogs, Youtube channels or podcasts you’re super into?

Tiny Desk and KEXP live sessions are my fave!

Any last words?

Back ya self and be nice 🙂