LISTEN: Emerging Artist Ryan Larkins Puts His Own Spin On His Hit Song "The Painter"

After earning his first No. 1 as a songwriter with the Cody Johnson version, Larkins now is giving fans his take on the timeless love song.

Music City native and proud dad of three, Ryan Larkins always aspired to have hit songs on country radio. Fast-forward to now, and the ACN 10 2023 class member is celebrating his chart topping hit "The Painter," with his own take on a song that was inspired by his wife. Originally written by Larkins alongside Kat Higgins and Benjy Davis, Ryan released his own 2-track bundle of “The Painter,” including an acoustic and piano version. 

"The Painter" not only says I love you, but expands on all the emotive moments that follow. Ryan’s classic tone is unmatched and narrates a story that only comes along once in a generation. But for Larkins, the truth that he finds in the song allows him to effortlessly deliver the tender track. Capturing each milestone and highlighting all the reasons he has fallen head over boots, "The Painter" is a beaming masterclass in what a love song should be.

“I don’t remember / life before she came into the picture / Brought the beauty I was missing with her / Showed me colors I ain’t ever seen,” Larkins' croon sings with loving conviction. “She took chances / With every wall, I built she saw a canvas / I thank god every day for how he made her / My life was black and white, but she’s the painter.”

Ryan's own journey is woven into each lyric and invites fans to share their love story as well. An ode to anyone who “Gets excited about all my crazy dreams," "The Painter" is a once in a lifetime song that will surely transcend generations of country music fans.

“I’m so excited to release my version of ‘The Painter.’ I’m thankful for what this song means to me and my family, and I can’t wait for everyone to hear it," Ryan shared in a press release. Fans can also get a sneak peek into the recording process through the official studio video, which simultaneously dropped today. Through powerful story and a classic sound, the rising talent solidifies himself as one of the biggest acts to watch.