“A Modern Sinatra: The Rise of Ryan Peter Murphy”

Photo by Phil Knott

Imagine hearing a male voice singing as you pass a few buildings on the sidewalk. The song seems familiar, and the lyrics and vocal style make you look up. Suddenly, you become aware that someone is singing to you. A person leaning out of a window, serenading you like Frank Sinatra.

Whether you’ve been one of the lucky few to look up and hear those velvety vocals outside a window, or you’ve come across viral videos of the singing on your TikTok feed, that was definitely Ryan Peter Murphy.

Originally from Connecticut, Ryan began singing at a young age. His grandfather was the source of musical influence in his family. He holds vivid childhood memories of playing with toys while constantly singing, something he will never forget. He wasn’t trained for his talent; he was born with it.

As he grew older, his taste in pop culture and music evolved. He enjoys mainstream music, Disney, and even Justin Bieber. However, where does the foundation of Ryan’s vocal style come from? His father introduced him to oldies, such as artists like Frank Sinatra and Michael Bublé.

So how did this concept come to be, and how did audiences begin to recognize him from videos of him singing out of a window?

Ryan is currently a student at Berklee College of Music. This institution played a key role in connecting him with producers and songwriters—who also happen to be his closest friends. Attending Berklee has allowed Ryan to build a team that is both professional and personal, supporting him throughout his music career. From networking events to showcases and auditions, these experiences have led him to secure management with Red Light Management.

The now-famous TikTok series of Ryan singing out of a window originated from a simple suggestion by friends: “You should sing Fly Me to the Moon.” Without even intending to record or post it, the video became a massive hit and quickly went viral. Ryan began recreating the concept, singing different songs out of windows. A few posts here and there have now led to over 250 million views.

Murphy has demonstrated his talent to the world through this series, experiencing rapid growth across social media and a surge in viewership. It’s clear why audiences were drawn to these videos.

Ryan leans into the relatability and simplicity of singing out of a window to entertain and impress. There is nothing overly polished or extravagant about the videos, just raw vocals shared with people passing by. In the most casual, almost flirtatious way—“like asking a girl out,” as Ryan described—it felt personal. Whether you were the one being sung to from across the street or simply watching through your feed, audiences wanted more.

His distinctive voice carries a “Frank Sinatra meets Adele” quality, blending romance, yearning, and a fusion of classical and contemporary influences into his own unique sound.

With rapid success came recognition, not only on TikTok and Facebook, but in everyday life. Since going viral, Ryan’s life has changed immensely.

Beyond singing out of windows, Ryan also busks on Newbury Street. Around two years ago, he and a friend were surprised by Jennifer Hudson while performing in Boston Common. The moment was captured on video and quickly attracted widespread attention.

Jennifer later invited Ryan and his friend to appear as musical guests on her talk show, alongside celebrity guest Snoop Dogg. Ryan performed “Tennessee Whiskey.” To this day, Hudson remains in touch and considers that moment special.

From performing on television to gaining millions of views online, Ryan’s journey is only just beginning.

He has already performed the National Anthem at major venues like TD Garden and Fenway Park, arenas filled with thousands of listeners. One of his biggest goals? A stadium tour.

Murphy has a long list of ambitions for the future, including selling out arenas, earning a number-one album on the Billboard charts, and hosting a Christmas TV special.

Ryan appears to have a big year ahead, with exciting plans in motion, potentially including a Christmas album, TV appearances, and an upcoming record deal.

Now, if that’s not exciting for Ryan and his growing audience, what is?

Let’s just say: don’t be surprised if you find Ryan opening for major artists this summer. His voice is no longer just coming from a window, it’s taking center stage.