Madison Ryann Ward, a faith-based singer/songwriter, blends mature pop and contemporary R&B with influences of gospel, blues, and folk in her music. Initially signed to Rick Rubin's American Recordings, she later established herself as an independent artist with Zelda House Records, releasing singles before her full-length debut, A New Thing (2023), showcasing her commanding voice.
Growing up in Oklahoma, Ward was exposed to a variety of musical genres, with her mother playing piano in church and her father's restaurant providing a backdrop for blues and soul classics. Despite excelling in athletics, particularly volleyball, she shifted her focus to music after a viral recording of her singing Aretha Franklin's "Chain of Fools." Building an online following through cover uploads, Ward honed her vocal and songwriting skills, eventually securing a deal with Rick Rubin's American Recordings and releasing her debut EP, Beyond Me, in 2019, followed by singles leading up to her album release in 2023.
