Lee Ryan

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Lee Ryan (born 17 June 1983) is an English singer-songwriter and actor. He is known as a member of the British boy band Blue.

Early life

Lee Ryan was born in Chatham, Kent. His parents split up when he was six years old. Ryan mostly lived with his mother, sister Gemma and his grandmother. Ryan went to Bedonwell School before attending performing arts schools, including the independent fee-paying theatre schools Sylvia Young Theatre School and Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts.

Career

2000–2005: Career with Blue

Ryan is a member of boy band Blue along with Simon Webbe, Duncan James and Antony Costa. The group has sold over 14 million records worldwide. In August 2005, Blue split up to pursue solo careers under the advice of Sir Elton John. Blue reformed on 28 April 2009. Ryan has had three number one hits while with Blue. He had previously co-directed the video for Blue's single "Breathe Easy" which he also wrote and which was shot in Prague. In 2001 the band was in New York during the September 11 attacks after which Ryan commented that "This New York thing is being blown out of proportion" and asked "What about whales? They are ignoring animals that are more important. Animals need saving and that's more important." The other members of the band tried to silence Ryan, but he went on. This caused a huge media backlash that resulted in Blue losing a record deal in the United States and campaigns to sack Ryan from the group.

Lee Ryan (album)

Lee Ryan is the debut and only solo studio album to be released by Blue band-member and singer, Lee Ryan.

Background

Ryan revealed on ITV2 documentary The Big Reunion that soon after the break-up of Blue, he was approached by record executives to pursue a solo career. Shortly after, Ryan hooked up with producer Hugh Goldsmith to help him produce and write his debut album. Ryan released his debut single, "Army of Lovers", on July 18, 2005. It debuted at #3 on the UK Singles Chart, and also peaked at #1 in Italy. The album itself was released on August 1, 2005, to mixed reviews from critics and fans alike. The album peaked at #6 on the UK Albums Chart, and also managed to reach #3 in Italy. Shortly after, Ryan released his second single, "Turn Your Car Around", which was also moderately successful. January 2006 saw the release of the album's third single, "When I Think of You", which peaked at #15 on the UK Singles Chart, becoming Ryan's last release from the album in the United Kingdom.