Podcast Title: The Bobby Bones Show
Host: Bobby Bones
Guest: Ryan Hurd
Episode Title: BOBBYCAST: Ryan Hurd on Being a Dad and Touring Less to Be With His Son + His Love For Chains & Cardigans + Why He Didn’t Put Out a Breakup Record + Meeting Paul McCartney at a Grammy Party
Release Date: May 30, 2025

1. Introduction and Personal Life

Ryan Hurd opens up about significant personal changes, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing fatherhood over his music career.

• Ryan: "First priority still will always be the first priority." ([00:52])

He discusses the decision to reduce touring commitments to spend more quality time with his five-year-old son, reflecting on the profound impact this choice has had on his life and career.

• Ryan: "It's one of the best decisions I ever made was to tour less just because like this you only get one shot at your kid." ([06:02])

2. Fashion and Personal Style

Ryan shares his quirky sense of style, particularly his affinity for cardigans, which have become a staple in his wardrobe.

• Ryan: "I've been wearing [cardigans] about five months in a row every day to work." ([02:49])

He humorously recounts a conversation with his wife about experimenting with wearing a gold chain during an NFL Honors Awards show, highlighting the importance of confidence in personal fashion choices.

• Ryan: "I wear a chain now... to remind myself I can wear whatever the frick I want." ([05:53])

3. Music Career and Songwriting

The discussion delves into Ryan's achievements as both an artist and a songwriter. He praises his second album, "Midwest Rock and Roll," and highlights his successful songwriting for other artists.

• Ryan: "The album's great. Check it out." ([01:11])

He reflects on the evolving music industry, particularly the challenges and strategies related to streaming, radio play, and songwriting. Ryan emphasizes the importance of owning his masters and maintaining creative control.

• Ryan: "I've switched up my business a little bit to where, like, I own my masters now, which is very cool." ([10:10])

4. Navigating the Music Industry

Ryan provides insightful commentary on the current state of the music industry, including the significance of relationships, streaming platforms, and the lack of a singular "right way" to achieve success.

• Ryan: "There is no ultimate gatekeeper." ([08:08])

He discusses the financial aspects of songwriting, explaining how royalties and publishing deals work, and the complexities of recoupment in the industry.

• Ryan: "Understanding publishing money, where it comes from... it's like selling advertising." ([60:28])

5. Challenges of Touring

Both Bobby and Ryan express their mutual anxieties about touring, particularly the stress of ticket sales and the desire to remain connected with family.

• Ryan: "Touring is causing a lot of anxiety... I don't like being away from my kid." ([10:10])

• Ryan: "I hate on sale day... I go through the list. She goes, how many times does it ever happen?" ([14:25])

6. Meeting Paul McCartney at the Grammys

One of the most memorable moments of the episode is Ryan's recounting of meeting the legendary Paul McCartney at a Grammy party. He describes the surreal experience and how it inspired him to write a song about the encounter.

• Ryan: "I met Paul McCartney at an LA after party in a suit... wondering what I'm doing here." ([68:22])

He elaborates on the emotional significance of the meeting, connecting it to his childhood memories of music fostered by his father.

• Ryan: "The reason I make music is because my dad played 'Let It Be' on a record when I was a kid." ([74:08])

7. Reflections on Success and Fulfillment

Towards the end of the conversation, Ryan shares his perspective on measuring success not by personal sales or streams, but by the impact of his songwriting and the happiness it brings him.

• Ryan: "What makes me happy is the making of it... that's the thing that I will always love." ([77:05])

He underscores the privilege of being able to create music and the deep satisfaction it provides, despite the industry's uncertainties.

• Ryan: "Writing songs every day is its own reward. It's the greatest job on the planet." ([77:32])

8. Closing Thoughts

Ryan reflects on his journey, the support from his team and family, and his aspirations for future projects. He remains optimistic about continuing his career in a way that aligns with his personal values and priorities.

• Ryan: "I'm so blessed to get to do this. I hope I can continue to for a long time." ([77:05])

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Ryan on Prioritizing Fatherhood:
  "First priority still will always be the first priority." ([00:52])

• On Touring Less for Family:
  "It's one of the best decisions I ever made was to tour less just because like this you only get one shot at your kid." ([06:02])

• Regarding Personal Style:
  "I wear a chain now... to remind myself I can wear whatever the frick I want." ([05:53])

• On Owning Masters:
  "I've switched up my business a little bit to where, like, I own my masters now, which is very cool." ([10:10])

• Meeting Paul McCartney:
  "I met Paul McCartney at an LA after party in a suit... wondering what I'm doing here." ([68:22])

• Measuring Success:
  "My measuring stick is how many songs am I getting cut by other artists." ([56:18])

• On the Joy of Songwriting:
  "Writing songs every day is its own reward. It's the greatest job on the planet." ([77:32])

Conclusion

In this episode of The Bobby Bones Show, Ryan Hurd provides an intimate look into his life as a dedicated father and a talented musician navigating the complexities of the music industry. From his heartfelt decision to prioritize his family over touring to his creative process in songwriting, Ryan offers valuable insights and personal anecdotes that resonate with aspiring artists and fans alike. The highlight of the conversation, meeting Paul McCartney, serves as a testament to the serendipitous moments that shape an artist's journey. Overall, Ryan's candidness and passion for music make this episode a compelling listen for anyone interested in the intersection of personal life and professional artistry in the world of music.