With Germany completing our Big 5 line-up for Lisbon tonight, it’s a better time than any to speak to one of the hopefuls fighting for the German ticket to the contest. We spoke to Ryk about his entry, his love for the contest and how he feels like an underdog in the competition. See what he has to say below!
Hello Ryk! First of all thank you for your time talking to us. How are you? Can you introduce yourself? What can you tell us about yourself?
Hi there! My name is Ryk, I am 28 years old and I work as a freelance composer, music producer and singer. I studied at the University of Music and Drama in Hanover. Since 2016 I’m the musical director of a big circus company; “Feuerwerk der Turnkunst” is the most successful circus show in Europe. I am fine so far but nervous and excited as well. It’s a big thing for me competing in the German national finals for Eurovision. I would definitely see myself as an underdog but however the show turns out, I’m already thankful for the upcoming exciting weeks.
What can you tell us about the song that you will be singing?
I can’t tell a lot for certain now. I am already working on the song and the production and also the performance on stage. I can only say, that it will be atmospheric and kind of mystical but definitely no party song.
What is your impression of the Eurovision Song Contest in general? Do you watch it every year? What is your favourite entry?
Yes! I am a huge fan of Eurovision ever since I can remember! It is a big tradition and an important date in my calendar every year. I think that Eurovision is even more important than you’d thing with a first view. It creates an intercultural exchange and it unites Europe in a very special way. For me it is way more than just a show. It is a highly discussed event in almost every European country. Above all it shows a world of kindness, colour, diversity and it fights against isolation and hate. There are so many great entries through the years that it’s really hard to pick one favorite but if I’d have to, it’s definitely Sertab Erener with “Every Way That I Can”.
Which musical stars do you follow a lot and why?
It was and still is in a special way Amy Winehouse.
What is your biggest success so far in your opinion?
I think the biggest success so far is that I can create music and sing for a living. I’d never thought that I would have kind of a secure life after my studies. That’s why I’m happy even more that I found a great job with working for “Feuerwerk der Turnkunst.”
What’s the one thing that might surprise people about you?
It is and always has been, that I am not only a singer but also a composer and producer and that is actually the main part of my life as a professional musician.
Where do we find you on a Sunday afternoon?
In the gym. I fell in love with acrobatics and sports in general a few years ago and I use to spend all of my free time being active in any possible way, from running, swimming, boxing. cycling and dancing to acrobatics and climbing.
What is the best bit of advice you have ever been given?
Never hesitate to have the courage to live for your dreams. If there is one thing, that is for certain, than it is that you can do everything and reach every goal if you work hard enough.
If your life was a song title, what would it be?
Life is a rollercoaster.
What is a typical day like for you?
I wake up at 7, have breakfast and make myself ready for the day. I enter my studio around 8am, I work until 1pm. I do a break for an hour, I continue working until 5 or 6 pm. Afterwards I change my clothes, jump on my bike, drive to the gym and work out until 10pm. I come home, have dinner and go to bed.
We hope you enjoyed getting to know Ryk and wish him the best of luck in tonight’s Unser Lied für Lissabon! #YOU can check out his entry “You And I” below;
What do #YOU think of Ryk’s song? Share your thoughts with us on our forum HERE or join the discussion below and on social media!
