Ryan Beatty Talks Post-Beyoncé Breakout and Sharing Love Songs With His Boyfriend: ‘It’s Awkward at First’

On a sweltering day in Manhattan, the Lower East Side's Nightclub 101 is buzzing with excitement as singer-songwriter Ryan Beatty takes the stage. Beatty, known for his work on Beyoncé's Grammy-winning album Cowboy Carter, is performing as part of a series of world tours promoting his fourth album, Sweet Fortune. The album, released in June, features tracks like "Virtuoso" and "White Lightning," which showcase Beatty's Southern influences and California roots.

Though the album was recorded in Los Angeles, the bulk of the songs were written in the Northeast during a winter when Beatty listened to a lot of Chet Baker. Sweet Fortune delves into themes of distance and personal relationships, marking a departure from Beatty's previous pop career. For the first time, Beatty sings about a relationship he's in, rather than a heartbreak, a theme that feels deeply personal and authentic.

Beatty's journey to this point has been filled with challenges, including a period of self-doubt and a struggle with his sexuality. Coming out in 2016 allowed him to find his voice and focus on his craft, leading to the creation of Boy in Jeans and ultimately Sweet Fortune. Through his music, Beatty has helped many listeners feel seen and express their own experiences, proving that his art has a profound impact on people's lives.