Personal relationships and long tours gave Ryan Cabrera a lot to think about.

Cabrera, whose former relationship with pop-star icon Ashlee Simpson sparked massive media attention, says his music now reflects a “grown up” feel.

“You just have to write the song, however it comes out,” Cabrera tells andPOP, speaking about his upcoming album. “With every record, you grow some more.”

The album, “You Stand Watching,” is the second major label release for the Dallas, Texas, native. Set for release on September 20, the album includes the single, “Shine On.”

As for girlfriends, Cabrera says he’s enjoying being single for the meanwhile.

“Being gone for a long time is difficult for any relationship. Plus, I’m still best friends with Ashlee,” says Cabrera.

His album, which was self-produced last June, is just one project Cabrera has to worry about. He is also involved in a new MTV dating show, “Score.” Contestants will have to win their dates by creating and performing original songs. Of course, these new musicians will be carefully guided by Cabrera, helping them with lyrics and song arrangement.

The show, scheduled to premiere on November 14, consumed most of his time this summer; the album taking up the rest.

Cabrera admits that he had struggled to successfully secure a job in the music world before his major label debut, “Take It All Away,” was released last summer.

“It took about five years to get things going, but they gradually got bigger, which is really exciting.”

After being on tour for four of those five years, he describes the atmosphere of performing live as a relaxed one.

“The best feeling is the excitement from the crowd, like hanging out with a bunch of friends. It’s my goal to make everybody feel that way.”

Ryan picked up a guitar in his teenage years and hasn’t put one down since.

He says he tries to make music that will appeal to all age groups. His message to everyone is simple and important.

“Don’t listen to negativity. Instead, focus on doing something because you love to do it.”

Love might be the most prominent theme of all in “You Stand Watching,” as a lot of songs speak about surviving in the dating world.

How romantic.






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