Ryan Thomas Holley
Ryan Thomas Holley
Lead Vocals
Rhythm Guitar
The Voice Behind Departure ATX’s Arena Rock Energy
Ryan Holley has been fronting Departure ATX since late 2015, when founding members Joel Godson and Jesse Monaghan connected with him to bring a powerhouse voice to their Journey tribute vision.
With nearly a decade in the spotlight alongside Departure ATX, Ryan’s dynamic vocal range and commanding stage presence have been central to the band’s high-energy, arena-rock style across Texas.
Before joining Departure ATX, Ryan carved out an impressive solo career in Austin. From high‑school gigs to headlining clubs and festivals nationwide, he self‑produced, toured relentlessly (over 500 shows in two years), and built a loyal fanbase with heartfelt rock anthems—drawing inspiration from vocal giants like Chris Cornell, Jeff Buckley, Robert Plant, and Brad Delp. His dedication saw him leave corporate life to pursue music full time, navigating the hardships of life on the road with grit and humility.
On stage, Ryan’s vocals embody arena-rock swagger—layered with sweeping leads and electrifying harmonies that elevate every Departure ATX performance. His real-world storytelling and authenticity enrich the band's live renditions, from “Don’t Stop Believin’” to deeper cuts, making each show both nostalgic and fresh.