Ryan Barnett is a singer/songwriter/worship leader currently living in Lake Charles, LA. Growing up as a pastor’s kid in a Christian home, Ryan has been exposed to many styles, genres, and varieties of music that have collected to become the diverse nature of what you will hear on his first album, “Shine Away the Dark.” The title song inspired by a quote from Eleanor Roosevelt, “It’s better to light a candle than to curse the darkness” is a challenge to all to “Be the one to make a change.” Ryan’s unique vocal approach and songwriting is sure to inspire you.
Ryan is the father of 3 girls, Annalise (4 years), Allyne (2 years), Adeline (< 1 year) and has been married to his wife Susanna since 2002. He is an ordained minister with the Christian International Outreach Center, Inc. under the leadership of Rev. W. Mark Hankins. Ryan first started full time ministry in 2000 when he travelled with “Wings of Morning”, an international music ministry team, singing and teaching all over the United States as well as in several foreign countries. From there he attended and graduated with honors from the In Christ International Bible College. He also has had the privilege of singing with Eddie James at such places as The Potter’s House in Dallas, TX under the leadership of Bishop T.D. Jakes. For the last 3 years Ryan has served as Worship Pastor at Glad Tidings Church in Lake Charles, LA where he oversees all areas of music ministry.
Most recently, Ryan was selected as the winner of a singing competition and was a featured soloist with the Grammy award winning, Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. (click here to see the live performance http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/047e6a66#/047e6a66/19).
While Ryan has had successes in his life, he states his ultimate purpose as this…
“I want to make God more famous. I believe He uses imperfect people to make Himself known. I want my children to see God’s light shining through me. Experiencing so much church culture already in life, I believe the world, and the church, are looking for a generation of people who will be the change, not just talk about change, or curse those who haven’t accepted what we believe is right. I strive to write music that communicates this same message. Music that inspires people to accept something that is much bigger than themselves. Music that allows people to get lost in God and His love for them.”
For the future, Ryan is excited to see what God does with this album. All proceeds will be given to various projects, organizations, and missionaries here in America and around the world.
“Thank you for your investment in what I believe is music that will change lives, change the world, and…SHINE AWAY THE DARK.”
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