Three years after his BRIT and Emmy nominations, and a whirlwind journey that took him from Eurovision to global stages, Sam Ryder returns with Heartlandhis deeply personal and long-awaited second studio album, out today.
About his debut There’s nothing but space, man! introduced the world to Ryder’s powerful voice and radiant optimism, Heartland dives into something more grounded, the sound of an artist who has lived, lost, learned and come home to himself.
“The creation of this album came at a time when my light felt like it was dimming the most,” Ryder shares. “Each song marks a defining moment of transformation and change in my life. However, one thing has remained constant – a thread of hope that keeps this project alive and my head above water.”
Written between the UK and Nashville, Heartland is a fantastic blend of Ryder’s soulful vocals and film production, what he calls “Frontier Soul”.
The record weaves together influences from old westerns, classic Hollywood music and timeless soul, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and new.
Over 13 tracks, incl White lies, OH OKAY, Armorand Better manRyder explores resilience, reflection and renewal. Each song feels like a chapter in a story of rediscovery – the soundtrack to finding light after the storm.
The album’s collaborators read like a roll call of modern pop craft: Mikky Ekko (Rihanna, Teddy Swims), Steve Mac (Ed Sheeran, Justin Bieber), Mike Elizondo (Gwen Stefani) and Jon Green (James Bay) among others, helping to create a record that’s emotionally rich and sonically expansive.
Released ahead of his biggest headline show to date at London’s Wembley Arena on November 6, Heartland marks a new era of creative freedom for Ryder, one that sees him embrace independence with authenticity and heart.
Before then, he’s taking it all back to where it started, performing intimate acoustic sets at independent record stores and HMV venues across the UK as part of his sell-out Road To Wembley Tour.
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