An Open Letter of Recommendation for Ryan Culwell

Around this time of the academic year, I am flooded with requests for letters of recommendation. Students need an authority to be witness to their character and aptitude as they apply for scholarships and internships. It’s in this spirit that I write the following, unsolicited recommendation for the songwriter Ryan Culwell.

May 13, 2011

To Whom It May Concern:

I am honored to write on behalf of Ryan Culwell on his relocation to Nashville,Tennessee. For the past 12 years, I’ve been Ryan’s friend, which I realize holds no bearing on the music industry, although I believe it should because who else besides a friend would see the commitment one has dedicated to his craft than the people who witnessed it first hand.

I heard the shy germination of a talent in a dorm room over a decade ago; the stage of mimicry that every artist should go through as he developed his voice by learning the voice of greats; and heard him in the moments, whether on stage or the edge of lake in Central Texas, when he transcended his influences repaying the difference on their transaction of talent and tradition. 

I recognize that the music industry, rightly so, trades in talent. We all appreciate your discerning ears. And though I am hardly an expert on vocal ranges or some other quantifiable measure that the industry may use to judge talent, I do have an understanding of the tradition that Mr. Culwell inhabits. I do know that in the offers of easier routes to success, Ryan has opted instead for the pursuit of art; given his talents to serve his friends, family, and community; and remained steadfast in character.

I hope this letter reaches the hands of someone who might be refreshed by his talent, as I know so many people at home in Texas have been.

Sincerely,

Seth Wieck