TROY TRIBE: RON ARTIS II

At TROY, we are honored to share stories of extraordinary individuals who inspire us with their talent and passion. On our last trip to the states we had the pleasure of meeting Ron at the Kentucky Horse Trials as he flooded the tent with his unique sound. We chatted with Ron who gave us a glimpse into taking his large family on the road and creative process as he writes his music.

Meet Ron

Ron Artis II is an award-winning soul musician hailing from the vibrant landscapes of Hawaii. Known for his captivating performances and astonishing guitar skills, Ron has carved a unique niche in the world of music with his heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies.

Growing up in Hawaii with his 10 siblings, Ron was immersed in a rich cultural tapestry that profoundly influenced his musical journey. The serene beauty of the islands and the close-knit family environment provided the perfect backdrop for his artistic development. Ron's music is a reflection of his deep connection to his roots, blending elements of soul, blues, and rock to create a sound that resonates with audiences worldwide.

Ron’s path in the music industry is unconventional. He travels the globe with his wife Julia and their five children, bringing his family along for the adventure. This unique approach allows Ron to balance his passion for music with his dedication to family, creating a harmonious blend of life and art. Together, they have visited over 18 countries and nearly all 50 states in the US, making memories and gathering inspiration for his music.

You travel the world and explained to me that wherever the music takes you, so too does it take your family. Tell us more about the adventures of traveling so extensively with your wife Julia and five gorgeous children?

Traditionally the music industry has been a “Single Person's” world. Meaning it breaks families. A full time touring artist can spend over 7 months on the road a year. My wife and I decided to cut a different path. We started as a couple with my group years ago. Then everything grew over time. My wife and I manage our company together and work with an agency for scheduling etc. Our children that are school age, have been enrolled through a program online. Enabling them to keep up their grades as they travel. So should they ever decide to take a more traditional path, they have that choice.

The heartfelt words of your music are beautiful, how do you find the creative process of writing and how do you carve out the time for this?

I’m not a normal person haha. I hear music everyday, everywhere. It’s the language I feel most comfortable sharing in. I didn’t speak until I was a three-year-old. I’ve learned over the years that you cannot schedule inspiration. But when it comes you get to choose. Will I follow it? You’d be surprised how many people on earth have a gift they ignore. I find that when we step away from “the noise” we hear ourselves again. 

Tell us about your upbringing in Hawaii, your many siblings and how the early musical exposure affected your own growth as an artist. 

I loved growing up in Hawaii. I could never say too many great things about it. The people, the culture, the ocean, the music. The list is honestly endless. Perhaps the greatest thing of all, was growing up with my family. I do miss those moments. No one really knows, when the last time you’re sitting with all your best friends happens. Looking back is the only way you know.Mine happened in Hawaii. I have 10 siblings. My parents were married for over 30 years, until my father passed away in 2010. I met my wife in Hawaii. My first two children were born in Hawaii. Hawaii will always and forever be home.

Your wife was born in Eastern Germany and had a career as a federal detective.... How did you meet Julia and find your home together in Tennessee?

Julia’s life and career before we met should have it’s own book. It’s quite extensive. A master dive instructor in Egypt, a former criminal detective with an international office, speaks 3 languages and most importantly an amazing soul. I met Julia during her one-year, trip around the world. Her last stop was Haleiwa (my hometown). Exactly one-year later we were married. We’ve since travelled the world together multiple times over. This time with music and our children. Our newest adventure has been our move to Nashville (Music City). We’ve found it quite beautiful to be surrounded by so many artist and visionaries. At the moment it feels like the whole world has moved here.

We don’t know where our next adventure will take us. But we look forward to it, when it’s time.

Tell us about your new album and where this may take you on tour.

The new album we’re just starting to record is called ‘We Are Not Machines’. Emotionally it’s based in Vintage Indie-Rock and Soul. It’s a journey through all that makes us human. The beauty and pain of our existence.

Recently I received an invite from The Rolling Stones to one of their shows, after they saw me sit in with The Zac Brown Band at Lincoln Field in Philadelphia PA. To learn that The Rolling Stones think “You Rock!” Is crazy.

Other recent notable moments include: Jack Johnson, Joan Baez, Ben Harper, Gary Clark Jr, Bonnaroo Music Festival & Norah Jones.

Do you have any recommendations for those looking to experience an amazing music scene in the US?

I would attend medium and smaller sized music festivals. I enjoy festivals that have a good mix of artists. That aren’t top pop type acts.

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