In the vibrant music scene of New Jersey, a fresh voice is emerging—RYGOD. At just 20 years old, he captures listeners’ attention with his unique blend of rap and personal storytelling. Born in 2004 in Trenton, New Jersey, and raised in Lawrence, New Jersey, from the age of four, RYGOD has been in the music industry since the age of 14, recording and releasing music that reflects his evolving artistry.
At age 13, Ryan Ben, whose stage name is RYGOD, joined his middle school band as a trumpeter. This experience proved pivotal, introducing him to performance and inspiring him to delve into creating music. Collaboration and musical exploration allowed him to discover his voice, setting the stage for future endeavors.
Growing up, RYGOD drew inspiration from iconic figures such as Tupac, Eazy-E, André 3000, and J. Cole. Being native to New Jersey, the East Coast hip-hop influence is evident in his lyrical style and storytelling approach as well as instrumental production choices. Beyond rap, RYGOD’s musical taste spans genres, including R&B, rock, and classical music, enriching his artistic palette and broadening his creative horizons.
In 2019, at 15 years old RYGOD marked a significant milestone in his then; two-year-old career by releasing his first mixtape “Credit is Due”. This project showcased his lyrical prowess and artistic vision, laying the groundwork for what would come next. Later that year, he dropped the single “Street Fighter,” a track that would become one of the most renowned songs in his discography. The single resonated with fans for its catchy hooks and engaging production, highlighting RYGOD’s ability to blend personal narrative with relatable themes.
The lyrical content a listener may find in RYGOD’s discography can range from lyrics not meant to be looked at with a magnifying lens but more about a cadence to punchlines and introspective lyrics that find a way to speak to the listener. This range allows him to connect with a broad audience, as he resonates with their experiences and emotions. Life’s experiences and challenges fuel his creativity, inspiring him to craft music that reflects both the highs and lows of life.
In 2022, RYGOD released “Reaper Man,” marking the start of a completely new era for him. With increased visibility and attention, he began to flex his versatility, experimenting with different styles of rap. This track showcased his ability to adapt and innovate, further broadening his appeal to a diverse audience. The shift in style signaled his growth as an artist and established him as a virtuoso.
Despite his early successes, RYGOD has taken occasional hiatuses from releasing music. These breaks, while surprising to some fans, seem to have heightened his mystique and intrigue. Listeners have expressed curiosity about his creative process, eagerly awaiting each new release as they wonder what he will explore next. This enigmatic quality has only added to his allure, making his music feel even more impactful when it arrives.
As he began to share his music, RYGOD quickly gained a following, driven by an energetic yet introverted presence and relatable storytelling. In addition to his musical endeavors, he has also taken on roles such as a clothing brand ambassador, and occasional producer, further extending his reach within the industry.
RYGOD’s rise in the music industry showcases his commitment to his craft. Leveraging social media, he has expanded his reach, connecting with fans far beyond his local community. His discography, still in its early stages, hints at a promising career ahead, marked by collaborations and a growing body of work.
With a blend of ambition and creativity, RYGOD is poised to make a lasting impact in the music world. His story, still unfolding, reflects the spirit of a new generation of artists who are redefining what it means to connect through music. As he continues to evolve, audiences are eager to see where his journey will lead next, with many anticipating new projects set to be released next year.
Natalia is a Rap and Hip Hop enthusiast. After graduating from The New School of New York’s Public Relations Program and taking a course in Journalism at Michigan State University, she decided to dedicate her life to the music publishing business and to the discovery of new talent. She helps new artists gain exposure to the masses via online marketing and publications.
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