Ryan Hurd
Discover the life, journey, and musical achievements of Ryan Hurd — American country singer-songwriter born November 2, 1986. Learn about his songwriting roots, albums, hits, and personal story.
Introduction
Ryan James Hurd (born November 2, 1986) is an American country music singer and songwriter. To a T and the duet “Chasing After You” (with Maren Morris) from his album Pelago.
In the following, we trace his background, breakthroughs, style, personal life, and lessons from his journey.
Early Life & Background
Ryan Hurd was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
He later moved toward the music capital — Nashville — to pursue country music professionally.
Career & Achievements
Songwriting Foundations
Before releasing his own records, Hurd made his mark as a songwriter. He has penned songs for major country names such as Blake Shelton, Tim McGraw, Luke Bryan, Lady Antebellum, Rascal Flatts, Randy Houser, Darius Rucker, and Brothers Osborne.
One of his early successful compositions was “Lonely Tonight,” co-written for Blake Shelton & Ashley Monroe, which hit No. 1 on the Country Airplay chart.
Transition to Artist
Hurd began to release his own recordings around the mid-2010s:
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His first EP, Panorama, came out in 2015 (later reissued)
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In 2017, he signed with Sony Music Nashville (RCA Nashville) and released a self-titled EP/recordings.
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His debut studio album, Pelago, was released October 15, 2021.
From Pelago, the duet “Chasing After You” (with his then-wife Maren Morris) became one of his most successful singles, reaching high positions on country charts and gaining wide recognition.
Another notable hit is “To a T” (2018), written by Hurd (with Laura Veltz and Nathan Spicer). Maren Morris sings harmony on that track. It became a signature song for him.
Style & Musical Approach
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Hurd leans into contemporary country with touches of pop, heartfelt lyrics, and smooth melodies.
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His songwriting often emphasizes relationships, emotional honesty, and evocative storytelling.
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He tends to co-write most of his material, helping maintain personal voice and authenticity across his songs.
Awards, Recognition & Chart Success
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Pelago debuted at No. 11 on the Top Country Albums chart and peaked at No. 71 on the Billboard 200.
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The lead single “Chasing After You” achieved strong chart performance and RIAA certification.
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His earlier songs “To a T” charted well in various country charts.
Personal Life & Relationships
Ryan Hurd married fellow country singer Maren Morris on March 24, 2018, in Nashville. Hayes Andrew Hurd, born March 23, 2020.
In October 2023, Morris filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences, and by January 2024 they had reached a settlement.
Their professional collaborations included “Chasing After You,” which became a meaningful duet in both their careers and personal lives.
Notable Quotes & Perspectives
While Ryan Hurd is more known for his songwriting and music than for frequent public aphorisms, some comments and lyrical lines illustrate his mindset:
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Regarding “To a T”:
“The song title’s double meaning — knowing someone ‘to a T’ and getting them into just a t-shirt — is intentional.”
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In interviews, he’s expressed gratitude and humility about shifting from writing for others to finding his own voice as an artist. (Implicit in profiles of his transition)
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His approach in Pelago was rooted in collaboration and authenticity: he co-wrote nearly every song on the album.
Lessons from Ryan Hurd’s Journey
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Start with writing, grow into performing: Hurd’s foundation as a successful songwriter gave him credibility and experience before he stepped fully into the spotlight as an artist.
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Collaborate to strengthen your voice: He often co-writes, allowing him to refine ideas, vary perspective, and maintain authenticity.
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Embrace life in your music: Songs like “Chasing After You” draw not only on professional collaboration but on personal relationship, making them resonate more deeply.
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Patience and gradual ascent: His career shows that progress is incremental — EPs, songwriting credits, then his own album.
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Balance professional and personal life: His journey includes managing public success, creative identity, and the challenges of personal relationships in the public eye.
Conclusion
Ryan Hurd has built a compelling career by combining strong songwriting roots with heartfelt performing. His move from behind-the-scenes writer to front-stage artist has allowed him to showcase both craftsmanship and emotion. Despite changes in his personal life, his musical output continues to reflect authenticity, collaboration, and the evolving story of his life in country music.