Akosua DF: Your song Holding On was track of the week at Premier Gospel last week. Tell us about the heart behind the song?

Ryan Hylton: I wrote Holding On just after my mother was diagnosed with cancer. To be completely honest, I wrote that song more so for myself as I knew there were many difficult roads ahead. I am glad that I was able to finish the song and release it before my mum passed. She would often play it during her stays in the hospital. I really do believe God knew what He was doing when He put the song on my heart. The week before my EP was released, I was able to play the full album to my mum. Sadly she fell into a coma and passed away on the day Holding On was released. As you can imagine the Psalmody EP is very sacred to me. When God inspired me to write Holding On and Best Views, little did I know that months later my mum would pass away unexpectedly. I do believe that there are many people who need to hear these types of songs because I am not the only one going through the hardest season of life and trying to find the strength to believe and anchor on to Gods word. So, mum, I dedicate this song to you. I hope my season of pain would be an encouragement to many that are like me, hurting.

Akosua DF:  What a testimony. Please accept my deepest condolences. I am certain that your mum would be extremely proud of you. Youve been highlighted by Premier Gospel as One to Watch. What does this recognition mean to you?

Ryan Hylton:  I cannot believe I have been highlighted as One to Watch I am still trying to get over the fact that my songs get played on the radio. It means a lot to me because I remember praying in my room last year after years of refusing to put music out. I told God I would be obedient and make music, but that He would need to take care of the rest. As the months have passed, Ive watched God open unexpected doors and elevate my ministry. I do not take this honour lightly because if I am One to Watch, that means whoever is watching and listening will hear what God has to say through me.

Akosua DF:  For anyone unfamiliar with your genesis, can you share how you got started in music?

Ryan Hylton: Music has always been part of my life. As a kid my dad was my idol and I watched him minister in many genres in the church. I grew up in a church that was full of talent with many anointed worship leaders such as Nathan Palmer. I was part of a band called Diligence with my sister and friends. It was hilarious but even then, we had some deep music. About 5 years ago, my dad gave me a mic that was given to him, and last year I borrowed my friend's recording program and made my first EP Messiah in my bedroom in less than a week. That was the birth of my music ministry as an artist.

Akosua DF:  Wow thats incredible ... Talk about 2 loaves of bread and a few fish. Alright so final fun question - who would you rather have round for dinner, Judas Iscariot or Mary Magdalene?

Ryan Hylton: Judas. I am fascinated by him and have so many questions to ask. How did it all go wrong? How can I learn from his mistakes? What are the things hindering my walk with God? You dont need to fail to learn from your own mistakes, sometimes just watch others mistakes and let that be your guide. I know some Christians would snub the chance to have dinner with Judas because he betrayed Christ. People ask, why did Jesus choose Judas Iscariot to be his disciple? But the truth is why did Jesus choose us?

Listen to Ryan Hyltons Psalmody EP here 

Interviewed and written by Akosua DF, Premier Gospel Presenter

Monday, 6 December 2021

One to Watch is the most anticipated segment on the weekly UK Gospel show. Each Sunday night, show host Jermaine Dallas gives eager listeners the scoop on the artists making waves in the UK gospel scene. Fan favourite, Ryan Hylton, made the cut last week and we caught up with him for a brief chat.