Music News
Ryland James Releases “Pretty Things”

Today, platinum-certified, two-time JUNO Award-nominated artist Ryland James opens his heart like never before with the release of his most deeply personal song to date, “Pretty Things”, out now via 21 Entertainment Group. Alongside the single, Ryland also unveils a visualizer that reflects the song’s emotional depth and quiet strength. The new track is part of an upcoming project he is working on, slated to be released later this spring.
At its core, “Pretty Things” is more than a song—it’s a healing moment, a reclaiming of self, and a tender conversation with the past. Of the track Ryland shares, “Pretty Things’ is the most intimate story I’ve ever told through music. It was written as a love letter to the inner child I repressed for a lot of my life, and it’s a promise to myself that I’ll live fully in my truth as a queer person now that I’m old enough and strong enough to protect that part of me. I’m beyond proud of this song, and I’m even more proud of my younger self for making it through the hardships he had to face to be as unshakeably sure of himself as he is today. I hope it inspires others to stand in their power too.”
With raw lyricism, gentle production, and Ryland’s unmistakable vocal vulnerability, “Pretty Things” captures the bittersweet beauty of embracing one’s full truth. It’s a song for anyone who’s ever had to fight to be seen, to be safe, or simply to be.
Listen or Stream “Pretty Things” here
Ryland’s journey has been one of artistic and personal evolution. Since first capturing hearts with his breakout hit “In My Head” – which topped Shazam Canada’s Top 200 chart and earned Platinum certification – he has continued to captivate audiences worldwide. His dynamic performances, including supporting multi-platinum superstar Alessia Cara on a sold-out North American tour and gracing festival stages like Life Is Beautiful, have solidified him as a rising force in contemporary music.
“Pretty Things” is available now. Stay tuned for more from Ryland James as he embarks on the next chapter of his musical journey.