The music world has lost a bright star with the passing of Ryan Whyte Maloney, an emerging singer and musician who gained national exposure during Season 6 of “The Voice” in 2014. He was 44 years old when his life was tragically cut short, leaving behind a legacy of musical achievements and cherished memories.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Born in 1981 in Traverse City, Michigan, it became clear at an early age that Ryan had a great love for music. He was only nine years old when he started to play different instruments: the guitar, violin, cello, and even the drums. He showed such potential, it created a really solid foundation for him to later move into.
Growing up, Ryan fronted the progressive rock band Indulge, which in 2005 released an album entitled “Tomorrow’s Another Day,” showing his varied talent and dedication to music. He started a solo career after ten years with Indulge, which eventually resulted in his album “Where I’ve Been,” produced by Sean O’Dwyer.
Rise to Fame on “The Voice”
In 2014, Ryan’s national breakout came when he auditioned for NBC’s “The Voice.” He sang Journey’s “Lights” during the blind auditions and, after capturing all four judges, chose Blake Shelton as his mentor. He had performed several memorable songs on the show throughout the competition, including Tina Turner’s “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” Rascal Flatts’ “Easy,” and Shinedown’s “Second Chance.” He had progressed through various rounds on the show to become one of the top five finalists of Shelton.
Continuing Musical Career
Long after “The Voice,” Ryan was still well into the music scenes as a songwriter, studio musician, and even as an engineer and producer to several artists while improving on his work. In January 2023, he dropped a single, “Don’t Put Me in a Box,” succeeded by “Love with Nowhere to Go,” “Sleepwalk,” and “Toast To Tonight.”
In 2024, Ryan secured a residency at Blake Shelton’s Ole Red in Las Vegas, where he regularly headlined and had a band and meet-and-greets. He has opened stages and toured for several superstars like Tim McGraw, Morgan Wallen, Rascal Flatts, Shakira, Usher, Adam Levine, Alabama, OneRepublic, Coldplay, Robin Thicke, and Ed Sheeran.
Final Days and Legacy
In the days leading up to his death, Ryan remained visible on social media as he continued posting glimpses of his life and musical engagements. He posted a video in his Instagram story from a bar on January 27, 2025, where he expressed excitement about an upcoming performance. News of his untimely death then hit the headlines the very next day in shock.
The passion, talent, and drive of Ryan Whyte Maloney in his music career had taken him through ups and downs. His performances were well received by many, and his presence was an indelible mark in the lives of his fans and fellow musicians. As we remember Ryan, we celebrate the music he created and the joy he brought to countless lives.
