Ryan Madison – Riches in Righteousness
Every now and then, I come across an album that reminds me why I fell in love with hip hop in the first place. Not because it’s chasing trends, but because it stays true to the music while delivering a message that matters. That’s exactly what Ryan Madison accomplishes with Riches in Righteousness.
After spending time with the project, I narrowed it down to my five favorite tracks: “I, Surrender,” “Guide Me Holy Ghost,” “Riches in Righteousness,” “Brand New Day,” and “Two Becoming One.” Those songs best capture the heart of the album, but the project as a whole stays consistent from beginning to end.
The first thing that stood out to me was Ryan Madison’s delivery. It immediately took me back to the days when Southern hip hop was built on substance. I heard flashes of Bun B along with hints of early MJG in the way Ryan lets his lyrics breathe over the production. Those influences never feel like imitation. Instead, they provide a nostalgic foundation while Ryan confidently carves out his own lane with a Gospel-centered message.
The production is another highlight. Rather than following today’s trends, the beats are soulful, smooth, and timeless. This is an album that naturally belongs on your summer playlist. Whether you’re taking a road trip or just cruising around town, the production creates the perfect vibe while allowing the lyrics to remain front and center.
What moved me most, however, is how rich this project is with the Gospel. Ryan Madison doesn’t sprinkle in a few Christian references—his faith is woven into every record. I especially found him to be brave, adding his own vocals and melodies from his voice to the hooks. I was super impressed on how well he pulled it off. Themes of surrender, trusting God, perseverance, grace, and spiritual growth run throughout the album. More importantly, the message never feels forced. It feels authentic.
The title track, “Riches in Righteousness,” perfectly captures the album’s purpose by reminding listeners that our greatest wealth isn’t found in money or status, but in our relationship with Christ. Throughout the project, Ryan acknowledges life’s everyday struggles while continually pointing us back to trusting God and pressing forward, no matter what comes our way.
One of my favorite songs is “Brand New Day.” From the first listen, it gave me a nostalgic feeling that reminded me of the smooth musical influence of Nate Dogg. Ryan isn’t trying to sound like Nate Dogg, but the groove and overall feel instantly took me back to that era. It’s a refreshing record filled with hope and a reminder that God’s mercy gives us a fresh start every single day.
Another standout is “Two Becoming One,” which quickly became one of my favorite records on the album. I love the concept behind it because Christian hip hop simply needs more songs that celebrate healthy, God-centered marriages. Ryan Madison delivers a refreshing reminder of God’s design for marriage while encouraging husbands and wives to continue growing together in Christ. As a married man, I especially appreciated hearing a record that speaks life into marriage. Hopefully, more Christian artists follow suit.
I also want to give credit to the featured artists. Every guest complements the project without taking attention away from Ryan’s vision. Each collaboration feels intentional and adds another layer to the album while helping maintain its consistent message from beginning to end.
Overall, Riches in Righteousness is a reminder that Christian hip hop can still honor its roots while boldly proclaiming the Gospel. Ryan Madison blends classic Southern hip-hop influences with encouraging biblical truth, creating an album that’s enjoyable, uplifting, and worth revisiting. If you’re looking for music that points you back to Christ while giving you smooth summer vibes, this project deserves a listen.
Favorite Tracks: I, Surrender, Guide Me Holy Ghost, Riches in Righteousness, Brand New Day, and Two Becoming One.
Bottom Line: Ryan Madison delivers a refreshing blend of classic Southern hip-hop influences, smooth production, and Gospel-centered storytelling. Riches in Righteousness is a reminder that no matter what life throws your way, trusting God will always leave you richer than anything this world can offer.
You can listen to the full compliment of Ryan’s full catalog on his “Spotify for Artists” profile link below.
