Ryan Hartt is a dynamic harmonica player, vocalist, and songwriter whose sound bridges the grit of traditional blues with the energy of modern roots music. Known for his fiery stage presence and deep command of tone and phrasing, Hartt has built a reputation as one of New England’s most soulful and expressive blues artists.
Fronting Ryan Hartt & The Blue Hearts for over two decades, Hartt has toured extensively across the U.S., sharing stages with harmonica icons such as Rod Piazza Rick Estrin and Mark Hummel. His performances blend Chicago-style grooves, West Coast swing, and his own sharp songwriting sensibility, earning praise for their authenticity and infectious energy.
In 2025, Ryan released his solo debut, Be About It!, a record that showcases his growth as both a storyteller and musician. The album captures Hartt’s lifelong dedication to the traditional Blues while simultaneously being fresh and contemporary. Be About It! won Best Self Produced CD at the Blues Foundation’s 2026 International Blues Challenge.
Whether on stage or in the studio, Ryan Hartt plays with the conviction of a true believer in the power of American roots music: raw, heartfelt, and real.
DISCOGRAPHY:
Ryan Hartt
Be About It! 2025 on Far-Tone Records
Ryan Hartt & The Blue Hearts
Boston Blues Works Vol. 1 – 2012 on Boston Blues Works Records
Call My Name – 2012 on Far-Tone Records
Yeah Man! – 2005 on Far-Tone Records
Empty Wallet – 2003 on Far-Tone Records
Compilations
Out All Night – 2013 – The Connecticut Blues Society
Blue State Blues – 2008 – The Connecticut Blues Society
Local Flavor – 2001 – The Connecticut Blues Society
AWARDS / ACCOMPLISHMENTS:
★ Winner: International Blues Foundation’s “Best Self-Produced CD” for Be About It! 2026
★ Voted “Best Blues Band” 2005, 2007, 2008 & 2011 by the readers of the Hartford Advocate
★ International Blues Challenge Competitors: 2004, 2007 & 2010
★ CT Blues Society Challenge Winners: 2003, 2004, 2009
★ Top 8 Finalists: International Blues Foundation’s “Best Self-Produced CD” for Yeah Man! 2006