Ryan Tedder

Early Life

Ryan Benjamin Tedder was born on June 26, 1979, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to musician Gary Tedder and schoolteacher Marlene Watrous. Growing up in a family of missionaries and pastors, he was immersed in a Christian environment. Tedder began learning piano at the age of three, motivated by candy rewards from his father. By age seven, he was singing, and by twelve, he was imitating his favorite artists, including The Beatles and U2. His passion for music led him to perform in various settings throughout his adolescence, including church and school.

Tedder attended Colorado Springs Christian School for his senior year, where he met future OneRepublic bandmate Zach Filkins. He graduated in 2001 from Oral Roberts University with a Bachelor of Arts in public relations and advertising.

Career

After college, Tedder worked various jobs, including as a waiter, before landing an internship at DreamWorks SKG in Nashville. He gained recognition after winning a singer-songwriter competition on MTV, which led to a brief moment of fame but no lasting contract. Tedder's big break came when he co-founded the pop rock band OneRepublic, where he serves as the frontman. He has also made a name for himself as a prolific songwriter and producer, collaborating with numerous artists across genres.

Personal Life

Ryan Tedder is married to Genevieve, whom he met in college, and they have two sons together. He has a close connection to music through his family, as his cousins are part of the band Sons of Sylvia. Despite his Christian upbringing, Tedder prefers not to be labeled strictly as a Christian artist. He also has a passion for culinary arts and has been involved in the restaurant business, notably with Southern Hospitality, co-founded by Justin Timberlake.