Serena Ryder brings harmony to her music and life.

Toronto-based singer and songwriter Serena Ryder is riding the wave of success with her mix of soulful ballads and uplifting dance-friendly songs. Ryder grew up in Millbrook, Ontario, where her parents instilled a passion for music from the day she was born with Ryder holding a microphone and giving command performances before she could walk.

Ryder’s three-octave voice has been compared to artists ranging from Adele and Aretha Franklin to Janis Joplin. Most recently Ryder won 2014 Juno awards for artist and songwriter of the year. Everyone from the Beatles to jazz legends Etta James and Ella Fitzgerald and even country icon Roger Miller have influenced her. Her album Harmony, released in 2012 with the hit single Stompa, has reached triple-platinum status bringing her worldwide attention and affirmation as a top performer and songwriter.

The album Harmony reflects Ryder’s mission. “I want to make people feel good, get up and dance and talk about love.”Ryder’s passion for music has taken her all across Canada and other parts of the world and allowed her to interact with her fans. For Serena it’s all about creating harmony for herself and in the world.   

Q&A

Where did you travel as a kid?

We did many car trips and went down to Florida a few times. We’d go to flea markets and yard sales on weekends.

What’s your favourite destination?

I love Australia so much—it’s so beautiful. I love the people, the food, the scenery and the ocean. 

What would be a dream destination?

I have always wanted to go to Cuba as well as Tulum, Mexico, and just hang out.

What do you like to do when travelling?

One of my favourite things to do is go to flea markets, antique shops and yard sales. I find it relaxing. I love to look at different pieces and guess where they come from. If I can get into the ocean I’m in heaven. I’m a spa girl and love saltwater pools. 

What do you like to buy when travelling?

I have an obsession with convex mirrors and picture frames.

What don’t you like about travelling?

I don’t care for airports because I don’t like how they make people feel so tense. Security agents make you feel like a criminal. And please don’t get upset if I put my aircraft seat back!

What do you always bring when travelling?

Sage, it’s my must-take item. I just burn it and it makes me feel better and gets rid of bad vibes. I also take essential oils with me. They help me feel like I’m at home.

What’s an embarrassing travel experience?

When I went to Great Wolf Lodge in Niagara Falls with my boyfriend, I went down the waterslide and my bathing suit fell off and gave the guy at the bottom quite a shock!

Favourite restaurant?

Terroni on Queen Street in Toronto. The food is amazing and they are all family. I love that—a real family.