Artistry and Activism
Ryder's music has been influenced by genres ranging from R&B, jazz, folk, country, classical and blues. She admits her biggest influences are Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Ella Fitzgerald, Roger Miller, Hank Williams, John Prine, Paul Simon, Linda Ronstadt, Buddy Holly, TLC, Stevie Nicks, Neil Young, Rolling Stones, Wham!, Culture Club, Supertramp, The Beatles, David Bowie and Leonard Cohen.
She ranges musically between folk, roots, country, and adult contemporary music. An accomplished musician, Ryder can play the following musical instruments: guitar, piano, mandolin, ukulele, harmonica, banjo, clarinet, drums, bass.
According to various sources, Ryder possesses a three-octave vocal range. Ryder is considered a mezzo-soprano. Her timbre has been described as slightly nasal with a raspy lower register. Ryder is often praised for her technical virtuosity. She hits notes in full voice, with a controlled vibrato and an incredible conception of pitch. Ryder has a good-sized arsenal of technical skills. She "delivers in a commanding, often melismatic style that enchants"
Reviews compared her to "the teenaged Aretha Franklin" (Elle), noting her "impressive fearlessness" (Boston Globe), lauding her "pipes, presence potential" (No Depression), and observing that "Ryder brings a range and vocal maturity of someone twice her age" (American Songwriter).
In addition to singing, Ryder is also an accomplished visual artist. She draws, paints, sculpts and does collage. Some of her paintings have been sold for charity events, such as The Kidney Foundation of Canada. Ryder is also well-known among her friends for her voice impressions, mimicking various accents. Ryder has also actively supported many other charity organizations in Canada and abroad. She has been involved with Young Artists for Haiti, Time for Climate Justice Campaign, Canadian Kidney Foundation, Peterborough MusicFest, Fashion CARES.
Read more about this topic: Serena Ryder
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