Ryan Whyte Maloney was a singer and guitarist best known for his successful run on “The Voice” in 2014.
- Died: January 27, 2025 (Who else died on January 27?)
- Details of death: Died by suicide at the age of 44.
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If you or someone you know is experiencing warning signs of suicide, please contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, calling 800-273-8255, texting HOME to 741741, or accessing the online chat service. Formerly the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, the network provides free, confidential support for people in crisis or emotional distress, 24/7 year-round. You can also visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for more information.
Ryan Whyte Maloney’s legacy
Maloney began playing music as a child while he grew up in Traverse City, Michigan. He formed the band Indulge before focusing on his solo career, touring nationwide and recording music that found regional success in his home state and elsewhere. In 2014, he made his biggest splash when he appeared on “The Voice.”
Maloney was the second contestant on his season of “The Voice,” and his blind audition was a smashing success. Three of the four coaches turned their chairs around within the first 30 seconds of his performance of “Lights” by Journey, while Usher held out until Maloney’s final notes, then turned around to make it unanimous.
He had long dreamed of being mentored by country star Blake Shelton, so he chose him as his coach. Maloney became one of Shelton’s top five finalists, performing such songs as “What’s Love Got to Do with It” by Tina Turner (1939–2023) and “Easy” by Rascal Flatts. After being eliminated in the playoffs, he returned to perform in the season finale. Among Maloney’s competition on Season Six of “The Voice” were Morgan Wallen and Christina Grimmie (1994–2016).
After his time on “The Voice,” Maloney continued to record and perform, often in his adopted home city of Las Vegas. He performed on opening day of Shelton’s Las Vegas restaurant and venue, Ole Red, and he maintained a residency there.
Maloney on his blind audition
“I wasn’t actually that nervous. I’ve played over 360 gigs in the last year or so, and—even though it’s a big moment—I approached it no differently than when I’ve approached some of the national gigs I’ve done. Even though there may be 20 million people who will eventually watch it, I was still playing to an audience, so I focused on performing for them—just like a normal show.” — from a 2014 interview for My North
Tributes to Ryan Whyte Maloney
Full obituary: People
