Ryan Taylor Price on Community, the History of Rock n Roll, and the Influence of Neil Young

On this episode of First Spin, Hayden welcomes Ryan Taylor Price, a rising indie-folk artist whose debut album The Axe & The Tree marks him as a songwriter to watch. Blending lyrical honesty with lush, cinematic arrangements, Ryan’s music feels both intimate and expansive—like a diary entry set against a widescreen backdrop.Ryan shares the story behind The Axe & The Tree, exploring the personal experiences and emotional landscapes that shaped its songs. He reflects on the role of storytelling in his work, the balance between vulnerability and craftsmanship, and how he translates raw feeling into melodies that stick. Hayden and Ryan dig into the themes of resilience, love, and transformation that thread through the record, and how making the album became a process of self-discovery.Along the way, Hayden and Ryan discuss the challenges of creating music in today’s landscape: finding authenticity in an age of constant content, staying grounded in the creative process, and connecting with listeners who are searching for something real.Whether you’re already a fan of The Axe & The Tree or just discovering Ryan’s work, this episode offers a candid look at the heart of a songwriter building something meaningful. It’s a conversation full of warmth, honesty, and inspiration—perfect for anyone who believes in the power of music to tell stories that last.Songs featured in this episode:Old & CrazyAngel PoetsRecklessHalf-Written SongsLeast She DeservesStorm We WeatheredIntroduction music Blood Sugar Blues by former First Spin guest, Drew White.If you enjoyed this episode, it’d mean a lot if you left a quick review—it's one of the best ways to help new listeners find the show.And if you want to hear more artists worth your time, follow First Spin on social:📱 TikTok📸 InstagramOfficial Spin Podcast Spotify PlaylistOfficial Spin Podcast Apple PlaylistThanks for listening—see you next week.