Synth-pop duo RYAL is back, ready to keep pushing their music forward, this time with one of their most deeply personal and meaningful songs yet. “Keep Me in Your Sight” is a heartfelt tribute to a beloved father figure, Lawrence “Larry” Waxman—a cherished teacher, director, and friend—who passed away two years ago after battling Alzheimer’s. With this powerful new release, RYAL hopes to honor his memory while raising awareness of the devastating impact of the disease.
Listen to the track…
As someone who’s seen loved ones “die twice” with this terrible illness, the lyrics resonated with a haunting sense of mourning for me, really capturing the heart-wrenching pain of witnessing a gradual decline. However, the song does have a silver lining, as it were, because while it mourns for the progressive loss of Larry, it also celebrates the indelible influence of a guiding presence. Themes of unwavering devotion and bittersweet nostalgia emerge, illuminating the strength of the bond shared and underscoring how the echoes of cherished words and memories continue to provide solace amid the shadows of sorrow.
The song lovingly conveys a yearning for connection and the simple yet profound moments that define a relationship, illustrating the deep desire to hold onto the essence of love that has been altered by illness. With vivid imagery of crumbling walls and laughter that lingers like a sweet melody, RYAL juxtaposes the stark realities of decline with a flicker of hope for clarity and remembrance. Ultimately, this poignant piece stands as a heartfelt tribute, honoring the legacy of a mentor and father figure while encapsulating the bittersweet dance of love and loss—an eloquent reminder that even in the face of darkness, the light of cherished memories endures.
For a limited time, this heartfelt track will be available exclusively on Bandcamp, with all proceeds benefiting the Larry Waxman Art Changes Life (LWACL) Scholarship. This initiative honors Larry Waxman’s legacy, as he spent years inspiring and mentoring young artists at South Side High School. By purchasing “Keep Me In Your Sight,” listeners not only pay tribute to his memory but also help nurture the next generation of creative minds. This collaboration between music and philanthropy beautifully illustrates how art can change lives, ensuring that Waxman’s influence lives on.