Biography
Born around 1954 in Spartanburg, South Carolina, Ryce began with childhood piano instruction before sampling several additional instruments. Ultimately she launched her career through singing rather than instrumental work. Her initial professional appearances took place in Toledo, Ohio, where she accompanied herself on piano and guitar. After several years performing across Midwest clubs, she was discovered in Charlotte, North Carolina, by the multi-hyphenate musician Loonis McGlohon, who functions as pianist, arranger, composer, and broadcaster. Under McGlohon’s guidance she honed her vocal approach and entered the recording studio. Although she deliberately sidesteps direct stylistic borrowings, she holds particular regard for vocalists Ella Fitzgerald, Betty Carter, and Cleo Laine; likewise, the songwriting and instrumental work of James Taylor and Joni Mitchell have left a lasting impression. Possessing a powerful yet fluid voice, she delivers slow- and medium-tempo ballads with special appeal while maintaining a consistent undercurrent of swing throughout her performances.
Albums
