Today we’d like to introduce you to Ryan Stevens
Hi Ryan, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I grew up in LA with my dad working in the music industry. I have fond memories of being a child, side stage at shows running around and causing more chaos for the band and crew than they’d probably have liked but I’ve loved music for as long as I can remember. I have always had an interest in arts and entertainment of all sorts, especially live entertainment. It was that love that led me to work in a variety of industries from marketing to events and helped fan the flames of passion for creative direction, photography and branding. I’ve produced and managed events in music, TV and sports – integrating photography and creative direction whenever possible but I’ve come back home to music in the last few years. I love working with people, bringing dreams and visions to life. As a tour manager and day-to-day manager, I feel like I am helping an artist pursue their dreams all while making sure an audience has a night worth remembering. We all know the rush a good concert can give, as well as the joy that comes with sharing one’s talents with the world. So for me, I’m a part of spreading good music, making good memories and building dreams along the way. It is partly what also drew me to photography – it’s the art of capturing a moment and immortalizing a great memory.
In addition, inspired by Western cowboy culture I’ve also launched my own brand Cool It Cowboy Supply. I’m a hat and t-shirt guy and love good, catchy apparel. Of course, some would say that the market is oversaturated but that doesn’t detour me. I feel there is always room for everyone if you’re passionate enough to create and share. I’m choosing to stand out with excellent quality and a portion of sales going to support various mental health foundations which is another passion of mine. The name “cool it cowboy” is a reminder to stay cool, take a deep breath when needed but of course keep riding along just like a cowboy would.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
As many know, the entertainment industry can be tough, and finding your role in it can be even tougher, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. With each twist, turn, U-turn, and sometimes the occasional pothole I’ve found myself a little more. I’ve met new people, discovered new interests and skills, learned things about myself and this industry, and have become a much more well seasoned, well traveled human. I will say finding the right fit within a good camp can be hard. It isn’t always the most stable or loyal industry and there can be some tough egos to deal with, but it’s also filled with some beautiful talent, brilliant minds, and incredible personalities. I’ve been fortunate enough to find people who feel like family and having those people in my corner makes any obstacle or challenge feel manageable.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Im a Tour Manager, Day-to-Day Manager, Photographer, Event Producer, brand owner, jack-of-all-trades, master of none… but as the quote continues, “a jack-of-all-trades is better than a master of one.” I am most proud of my persistence and flexibility. I am the type to try and try again, pivot and try some more. Not taking one linear path has enabled me to gain more skills across the board, as well as attain a more widespread understanding for the many facets of this industry. Ive gained a lot of respect for people just by stepping in to their job roles, even if briefly. My true passions are a split between creating and managing. I feel I have a unique eye and can translate it well with a camera. As for managing, I would say I’m definitely a devoted, hard working and type-A personality with an ability to spin a lot of plates at once. I’m good at keeping the details straight and making sure everyone is taken care of so they can do what they do best.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I grew up in LA, and have traveled and lived all over the world. Nashville is filled with creative, passionate minds but offers a slower pace of life that feels more sustainable. Here I feel I have more space to breathe. Unfortunately, coming from LA we aren’t always the most welcomed. I know it seems like a recent trend for so many people to move here from California and a lot of locals are not always kind and welcoming to that. While I get their concerns, we are definitely bringing more traffic, I also feel like we are respectfully coming to add to the creativity and growth. People have moved and migrated all over this planet for years. Change is part of everything in life and is essential to growth. Nothing is meant to stay the same forever. I’m here with an open heart, open mind, and a deep desire to connect to the communities already established. I also use my blinker when changing lanes. I’m looking forward to collaborating and being a part of what I hope to be a beautiful season of growth and opportunity for Nashville.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://coolitcowboysupply.com/
- Instagram: hiddenbehindmylens
- Other: https://www.ryan-alexander.com/home
