Ryan Beatty is reflecting on a major shift in his songwriting after the release of his fourth album, Sweet Fortune, according to Billboard. The singer-songwriter said the record includes songs inspired by his relationship with his boyfriend, something he had not done before.
Beatty told Billboard that writing about a relationship he is in, rather than heartbreak, felt new and a little awkward at first. He said he has always tried to write about what is actually happening in his life, even if he keeps some things private.
In the interview, Beatty also looked back on his early career as a teen pop artist and said he does not remember that period fondly. He said the years when he was unable to release music after parting with his first label were especially difficult, describing that stretch as dark and lonely.
Beatty said coming out in 2016 helped him feel more comfortable with himself and allowed him to focus more on his craft. He said that journey shaped the path to his debut album Boy in Jeans and eventually to Sweet Fortune.
He also spoke about the unusual path that led to his current moment, including his recent work on Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter, where he co-wrote several tracks, including “Bodyguard.” Beatty is now supporting Sweet Fortune with a series of small underplay shows.
