Ryan Otto Cassata, born on December 13, 1993, in the United States of America, is a musician and LGBT activist. He began playing guitar at age six and later became known for his advocacy work. In 2014, Cassata's song "Soda Cans" was included by The Advocate in a list of "trans hymns." His breakthrough moment came when he won the Ernie Ball Battle of The Bands in 2013 and 2015, becoming the first openly transgender musician to perform at the Vans Warped Tour. Cassata released his album Shine [Explicit] on March 15, 2016. He has also composed music for films, including the soundtrack for the short film Loop Planes (2010). Cassata's advocacy work includes speaking at various universities and high schools about transgender issues and his personal experiences.
