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Jordan Mark Witzigreuter (born November 14, 1989), known professionally as The Ready Set, is an American singer-songwriter and musician from Fort Wayne, Indiana, United States. He is the lead vocalist and sole member of the act, using a backup band while on tour.[4] He has released six studio albums, Syntax and Bright Lights, Tantrum Castle, I'm Alive, I'm Dreaming, The Bad & the Better, I Will Be Nothing Without Your Love and Cherryland, nine extended plays and nineteen singles. He is best known for the commercially successful single "Love Like Woe" from his major label debut, I'm Alive, I'm Dreaming.

From 2019 to 2022, Witzigreuter briefly released music under the name Onlychild. He has released twelve singles and a four-track EP, Solstice under this name.[5]

Witzigreuter is also a part of the synthpop band Nekokat, alongside Cameron Walker, and Jess Bowen of the Summer Set.[6]

In 2021, in collaboration with Walker, Witzigreuter created the music label Swim Team Records.[7] The company has featured a multitude of artists such as Future Coyote, TALKBAK, and Casey Abrams.[8] The label's music has been featured in promotion for things such as the PGA Tour.[9]

Early life

[edit]

Witzigreuter was born and raised in Fort Wayne, Indiana, a location he frequently mentions in his music. At the age of 11, his mother signed him up for drum lessons.[10] This led to him playing the drums in bands throughout middle school and high school.[11] After becoming acquainted with other instruments, he began touring with bands and writing songs at the age of 16.[10] As a seventeen-year-old, Witzigreuter participated in various bands playing drums for the ska band Take Sides and the hardcore band Saints Never Surrender.[12] Witzigreuter was credited on Saints Never Surrender's sophomore album, Brutus, which was released in 2008.[13] He was also in the acoustic band brideandgroom.[14]

Career

[edit]

2007–09: Syntax and Bright Lights and Tantrum Castle

[edit]

In 2007, Witzigreuter began making music independently in the basement of his childhood home under the name the Ready Set.[15] He decided to go under this name because of his long last name and felt that the Ready Set was better and easier to say. According to Witzigreuter, the name refers to being "ready to set all of your fears and worries behind and just do what you really want to do."[16] His first two albums Syntax and Bright Lights and Tantrum Castle were released in 2008.[17][18] Initially uploading his music to the once popular Myspace, Witzigreuter then began performing his music live. His first performances took place at The Mocha Lounge in Fort Wayne, Indiana, a coffee shop where he worked.[19][20] His performances evolved to that of a live band, and he began performing for music festivals. These included The Bamboozle and Bamboozle Left,[21] the Bamboozle Roadshow,[22] and the mtvU VMA Tour.[23] He also opened for bands like Boys Like Girls and Never Shout Never.[24] He released a three-track EP, Stays Four the Same on June 23, 2009, via iTunes.[25]

The Ready Set has also made performances on MTV on multiple occasions, including an appearance on MTV's TJ Search Live Finale and being the "One to Watch" on MTV's 10 on Top.[26] Witzigreuter has also been featured twice on MTV's Buzzworthy.[27]

2010–11: I'm Alive, I'm Dreaming and Feel Good Now

[edit]
The Ready Set performing at Emo's in 2010.

In November 2009, Pete Wentz signed Witzigreuter to his label Decaydance Records.[28] An early version of "Love Like Woe" was sent to Wentz who took one listen to it and decided to sign him to the label.[29] He also felt that Witzigreuter was "passionate and believes in himself," hence why he signed him to the label.[30] Recording for his third studio album started in 2009, where he flew out to Los Angeles, Miami and Atlanta, working with different producers.[31] His debut single, "Love Like Woe" was released on March 29, 2010.[32] It was met with commercial success peaking at number 27 on the Billboard Hot 100[33] and number 30 on the Canada CHR/Top 40 chart.[34] This led to the song being certified platinum by the RIAA[35] and winning the BDS Certified Spin Award based on the 50,000 spins it received.[36] "More Than Alive" was released as the second single from the album on May 25.[37] The Ready Set's major label debut and third studio album, I'm Alive, I'm Dreaming, was made available for streaming on June 8.[38] It was officially released on June 14.[39] The album peaked at number three on the Heatseekers Albums chart and at number 172 on the Billboard Top Current Album Sales chart.[40][41] In support of the album's release, Witzigreuter went on tour in the fall of 2010 with Cartel, Hey Monday, This Century, and We Are the In Crowd.[22]

In September 2010, the Ready Set was named MTV Push Artist of the Week.[42] In November 2010, Witzigreuter was a part of the Punk Goes Pop Volume 03. compilation album performing the track, "Airplanes".[43] On November 24, the Ready Set released a Christmas song titled "Wishlist",[44] which peaked at number 32 on the Holiday Digital Song Sales chart.[45] On November 26, he released a Christmas EP, Regifted.[46] The three-track EP features "Wishlist", a cover of Paul McCartney's "Wonderful Christmastime" and an acoustic version of "More Than Alive".[47] In February 2011, he embarked on his first headlining tour called, "The Glamour Kills Tour" with supporting acts from Allstar Weekend, We Are the In Crowd and The Downtown Fiction.[48] The tour concluded on April 9, in Witzigreuter's hometown.[49] He also performed at the South By Southwest Music Festival in March, along with Enter Shikari, the Downtown Fiction, among many more.[50]

On March 1, 2011, the Ready Set released "Young Forever" from his upcoming EP.[51] The song peaked at number 39 on the US Mainstream Top 40 and at number five on the US Bubbling Under Hot 100 chart.[52][53] He released the EP's second single, "Hollywood Dream" on August 19.[54] "Killer" was released as the third single for streaming via his website on September 27.[55] On October 7, the Ready Set released his EP, Feel Good Now which was produced by Ian Kirkpatrick.[15] The EP peaked at number 179 on the Billboard 200.[56] He joined All Time Low on a fall tour from October to November 2011, along with He Is We and Paradise Fears.[57] In December, the Ready Set performed a few acoustic holiday shows with Breathe Electric, Plug in Stereo, and Weatherstar.[58]

In an interview with Alternative Press, Witzigreuter stated that he had plans to re-release Tantrum Castle, however, those plans appear to be scrapped.[59] In January 2012, Witzigreuter was featured in an episode of Disney Channel's So Random!.[60] He joined A Rocket to the Moon, Forever the Sickest Kids and the Summer Set for a Philippines tour in February.[61] He also toured in Australia and South America in March, in support of the EP.[62] In the spring of 2012, the Ready Set and Breathe Carolina co-headlined the Blackout Forever Tour with support from Ashland High.[63]

2012–15: The Bad & The Better

[edit]
The Ready Set performing live in 2011

In January 2012, Witzigreuter began working on a new album in Los Angeles.[59] On May 18, 2012, The Ready Set released the song, "Give Me Your Hand (Best Song Ever)" which was released through Warner Records and later served as the lead single from his fourth studio album, The Bad & The Better.[64] The song peaked at number 30 on the US Mainstream Top 40 and number 33 on the New Zealand Top 40 chart.[52][65] In May 2012, he confirmed he had finished a third of the album and after finishing writing 25 songs, he planned to continue writing for the majority of the summer, flying out to California during his time off to work on the rest of the album.[66] He hoped for a release date sometime later that year in the fall.[59]

In February 2013, the Ready Set co-headlined a US tour with Outasight.[67] In May 2013, he released a remix EP for "Give Me Your Hand (Best Song Ever)" titled, GMYH V.2.[68] In June 2013, Witzigreuter confirmed that he finished writing the album.[69] Prior to releasing his fourth studio album, he released a handful of EP's including, I'll Be Waiting, produced by his live guitarist Deryck Stanek and Sorry, Sorry.[70][71] He toured in North America with Breathe Carolina and rapper T. Mills in August 2013.[72] After leaving Decaydance following his third studio album, he subsequently signed with the label Razor & Tie.[73] In December 2013, the Ready Set released "I Don't Wanna Spend Another Christmas Without You", featured on Punk Goes Christmas.[74]

On March 18, 2014, he announced the release date for The Bad & The Better, released on May 27.[75] He worked with producer Ian Kirkpatrick again on the album.[70] "Higher" served as the album's second single and was released on April 8.[76] "Freakin' Me Out" was released on May 6, as the third single from the album.[77] The album peaked at number 75 on the Billboard 200.[56] In addition to The Bad & the Better, he also released The Celebrity EP.[78] He served as an act on Warped Tour in the summer of 2014.[73] In August, he released a non-album single titled "Trash Talking Love", featuring Kitty.[79]

In October 2014, The Ready Set co-headlined a tour with Metro Station called, The Outsiders Tour with supporting acts, the Downtown Fiction and Against the Current.[80] A live music video for the album's fourth single, "Fangz" was released on December 10.[81] In 2015, Witzigreuter started a side project band Nekokat with singer-songwriter Cameron Walker-Wright and drummer Jess Bowen of The Summer Set.[6]

2016–18: I Will Be Nothing Without Your Love and V1 & V2

[edit]

Following a one-year hiatus of releasing music under the Ready Set, Witzigreuter signed with Hopeless Records in November 2015.[82] Upon his return as the Ready Set, Witzigreuter stated in a 2016 interview with Alternative Press that he almost ended the Ready Set following the release of The Bad & the Better.[83] He felt that he was in a "weird spot at the end of 2014," feeling like he wasn't "progressing" as an artist and cited burn out as a reason for taking a break as the Ready Set and starting Nekokat.[84] While working on the new side project, it helped motivate him into writing music again and helped him learn a lot about production.[84]

On February 5, 2016, "Good Enough" was released as the lead single from his fifth studio album, I Will Be Nothing Without Your Love.[84] The album's second single, "Disappearing Act" was released on March 11.[85] The album was officially released on April 8, which was written, produced and engineered by Witzigreuter by the end of 2015.[84] The album peaked at number 24 on the US Independent Albums chart.[86] In May 2016, he collaborated with Haitian DJ Michael Brun and released a remix to "Good Enough".[87] The remix version peaked at number 40 on the Dance/Mix Show Airplay chart.[88] The Ready Set embarked on the Fight For Something tour in the spring of 2016 with Tonight Alive, Set It Off and SayWeCanFly.[89] He also joined Emblem3 and Megan Nicole on tour in July 2016.[90]

In 2017, Witzigreuter continued releasing with Nekokat,[91] whilst also appearing on features for other artists.[92] He released the song "Cotton Candy", a collaboration with Call Me Karizma.[93] In 2018, he started to release music independently again with two extended plays: V1 and V2.[94] "Life In Pink" was released on February 15, 2018, as the lead single from V1.[95] He released another single, "Stitch" on July 27, 2018, as the lead single from V2.[96] Another EP, V3, was set for release in October 2018, however was pushed back for a later date.[97]

2019–2022: Onlychild

[edit]

In mid-2019, Witzigreuter temporarily took a step back from The Ready Set and adopted a new name, Onlychild.[98] He stated that the reasoning for this decision was to create "something where the initial love of the thing came from." He also added that he would return to the Ready Set at some point but wanted to focus on Onlychild for the time being.[98] He released his first EP Solstice under that name on July 27, 2019.[99] He also began co-writing for other artists, joining Breathe Carolina on "In the Dark" from their 2019 album, Dead: The Album.[5] In May 2020, Onlychild released the single, "Chardonnay and Tangerine".[98]

In January 2021, Witzigreuter started a record label with Walker-Wright called, Swim Team Records.[98] In May 2021, Onlychild collaborated with American Teeth on the single, "Sloppy".[100] In October 2021, Witzigreuter and Nekokat collaborator Cameron Walker contributed writing credits to the single "Rock with You" on South Korean band Seventeen's mini-album Attacca.[101]

2022–present: return of The Ready Set and Cherryland

[edit]

Witzigreuter revived the Ready Set name in 2022 at the So What Music Festival[102] and performed under that name at the 2022 When We Were Young Festival.[103] In May 2023, Witzigreuter released his first solo single under the Ready Set name since 2018 titled, "Who You Really Are".[104] Another single followed in July 2023 titled "Teammate".[105] In August 2023, Witzigretuer released a hyperpop track "ACT 2", which serves as the third single from his sixth studio album. He joined Boys Like Girls on the Speaking Our Language Tour in the fall of 2023.[106] On August 25, 2023, Witzigreuter announced his sixth studio album, Cherryland which was released on October 27, 2023.[107] In October 2023, Witzigreuter joined Boys Like Girls on a reimagined version of their song, "The Outside".[108] In support of the album's release, Witzigreuter performed a concert show at the Echo in Los Angeles on May 7, 2024.[109] On May 20, Witzigreuter signed with Big Machine Records.[110]

Witzigreuter is confirmed to be making an appearance at Welcome to Rockville, which will take place in Daytona Beach, Florida in May 2026.[111]

Musical styles and influences

[edit]

The Ready Set's music is described as electropop and synth-pop.[112][113][114] Witzigreuter has stated that he typically likes to blend his sound ranging from pop to hip-hop to hardcore punk.[115][11] Witzigreuter grew up listening to Copeland which he has stated as his main influence.[10] He also cited inspiration from Daft Punk and Kanye West.[25] The Ready Set has also been compared to Owl City, generally for his sound, work as a one-man band and how he uses a live band while on tour.[116]

The Ready Set finds inspiration in songwriting based on personal experiences, stating, "some of it's just situations I think of and write a song about. Each one is hopefully a little different from the next. It depends on the song. Sometimes I'll have lyrics where it's probably only something I'll get or nobody really knows about. But it's nothing, like, too weird or anything. I try to make it relatively cool."[117]

Touring members

[edit]

The Ready Set

[edit]
Current touring members
Former touring members
  • Travis Rountree – drums, percussion[119]
  • Matthew Shaughn – bass guitar
  • Mike Naran – guitar, backing vocals[120]
  • Nick Annis – bass guitar, keyboards[121]
  • Deryck Stanek – guitar, backing vocals[122]
  • Andy Snyder – bass guitar[123]
  • Keegan Weckler – guitar[123]

Onlychild

[edit]
Final touring members
  • Mike Naran – guitar, backing vocals
  • Jess Bowen – drums, percussion

Personal life

[edit]

Witzigreuter married his longtime girlfriend Katelyn Gentry in late 2017.[124] Witzigreuter has a brother who is also a musician.[11]

Discography

[edit]
Main article: The Ready Set discography

The Ready Set

[edit]

Nekokat

[edit]
Main article: Nekokat § Discography

Onlychild

[edit]
  • Solstice EP (2019)

Awards and nominations

[edit]

BDS Spin Awards

[edit]
Year Nominated Award Result Ref.
2010 "Love Like Woe" 50,000 Spins Won [36]

MTV Buzzworthy

[edit]
Year Nominated Award Result Ref.
2010 I'm Alive, I'm Dreaming Fan Favorite Album Won [125]

PETA's Libby Awards

[edit]
Year Nominated Award Result Ref.
2012 The Ready Set Most Animal-Friendly Band Nominated [126]
2014 Won [127]

Filmography

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes Ref.
2011 Silent Library Themselves Contestants [128]
The Seven Themselves Guest performers [129]
2012 So Random! Themselves Guest performers [60]
2013 Oh Sit! Themselves Guest performers [130]

Tours

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

The Ready Set

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Ready Set is the solo musical project of American singer-songwriter and producer Jordan Mark Witzigreuter, born and raised in Fort Wayne, Indiana, who performs as a one-man band blending electropop, emo-pop, and electronic elements.[1] Launched on November 17, 2007, the act draws comparisons to artists like Owl City for its melodic, bubbly sound infused with heartfelt lyrics about love and personal growth.[2] Witzigreuter, who initially played drums in local bands, adopted the stage name to simplify pronunciation of his surname and has since released music independently and through labels like Decaydance and Hopeless Records.[3] Gaining mainstream attention with his major-label debut single "Love Like Woe" in 2010, which peaked at number 27 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned platinum certification from the RIAA for 1,000,000 units sold,[4][5] The Ready Set established himself in the pop-rock scene.[6] The track appeared on his debut album I'm Alive, I'm Dreaming, released that year via Sire Records, marking his breakthrough with radio play and tours alongside acts like All Time Low. Subsequent releases include the 2014 album The Bad & the Better on Razor & Tie, the 2016 full-length I Will Be Nothing Without Your Love on Hopeless Records, and the 2023 album Cherryland, followed by its deluxe edition in 2024, showcasing his evolution toward more introspective and collaborative production.[7][8] Throughout his career, Witzigreuter has maintained creative control as the sole songwriter and performer, often using live backing bands for tours, and continues to release singles like "Better Man" in 2025, amassing over 440,000 monthly listeners on streaming platforms.[9] His work emphasizes themes of vulnerability and resilience, contributing to a dedicated fanbase in the alternative pop genre despite shifting between indie and major labels.[1]

Early years

Childhood in Fort Wayne

Jordan Mark Witzigreuter was born on November 14, 1989, in Fort Wayne, Indiana.[10] He grew up in the city alongside two siblings, including a brother, Jason Witzigreuter, who became a high school band director.[3][11] His family provided a supportive home environment in Fort Wayne, where he spent his formative years in a typical Midwestern setting.[12] Witzigreuter attended local schools, culminating in his graduation from Homestead High School in Fort Wayne.[12] During his school years, he navigated the challenges of adolescence in a suburban community, balancing everyday student life with budding interests that would shape his future. His time at Homestead exposed him to a structured educational atmosphere, though specific non-musical pursuits from this period remain less documented beyond general childhood activities common to the area. An early spark of creativity emerged around age 10, when his mother enrolled him in drum lessons, marking the beginning of his musical journey and contrasting with his otherwise conventional upbringing.[2] This introduction to percussion laid a foundational interest in music amid his Fort Wayne childhood, setting the stage for deeper involvement without immediate professional pursuits.

Initial musical involvement

Witzigreuter began playing the drums at the age of 10, marking the start of his active engagement with music. By 13, he had joined several local bands in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where he primarily served as the drummer for the ska outfit Take Sides, with whom he won the 2004 whatzup Battle of the Bands, as well as the melodic hardcore group Saints Never Surrender.[12][13] The supportive environment of his Fort Wayne upbringing allowed Witzigreuter to nurture these early interests, transitioning from band performances to personal creative pursuits. Around age 14, he started self-recording demos in his parents' basement using a basic home setup, where he experimented with upbeat pop sounds blended with electronic and hip-hop influences.[12] In November 2007, at age 18, Witzigreuter launched his solo project under the stage name The Ready Set, chosen both to simplify pronunciation of his German surname and to symbolize a mindset of overcoming inhibitions to chase personal ambitions in music.[14][15][12] This moniker reflected his optimistic resolve to commit fully to songwriting and production. The following year, on February 19, 2008, he independently released his debut EP, Syntax and Bright Lights, which originated from those basement sessions and showcased his emerging electro-pop style.[16][17]

Career

2007–2009: Beginnings with Syntax and Bright Lights and Tantrum Castle

Jordan Mark Witzigreuter launched his musical project The Ready Set in late 2007 while still in high school, recording initial tracks in his parents' basement in Fort Wayne, Indiana, as a means of personal expression and experimentation. This DIY setup laid the foundation for his early releases, emphasizing self-production with minimal equipment and no professional support.[18] In February 2008, Witzigreuter independently released the EP Syntax and Bright Lights, a seven-track collection blending electropop and indie elements that marked his public debut under the moniker. The EP was distributed digitally and physically on a small scale, reflecting his grassroots approach to entering the music scene. Building momentum, he followed with the full-length album Tantrum Castle in July 2008, again self-recorded in the basement amid tight budget constraints that limited access to studio resources or collaborators. Featuring tracks like "Give Me Your Hand," the album captured his youthful energy and synth-driven sound, gaining initial traction through online uploads to MySpace, where it helped cultivate a dedicated fanbase via shares and plays.[19][12] Witzigreuter's self-promotion efforts during this period involved leveraging social platforms and word-of-mouth to overcome financial hurdles, including funding physical copies and travel for shows. He handled booking and marketing single-handedly, focusing on regional Midwest venues to test his live presence and build local support. By late 2008, these challenges transitioned into broader exposure through early tours supporting pop-punk acts like Forever the Sickest Kids, as well as festival appearances such as The Bamboozle, which amplified his visibility and honed his stage performance amid the rigors of independent touring.[20][21]

2010–2011: Major-label debut with I'm Alive, I'm Dreaming and Feel Good Now

In late 2009, Jordan Witzigreuter, performing under the moniker The Ready Set, signed a recording contract with Decaydance Records—an imprint of Fueled by Ramen—in a joint venture with Sire Records, marking his entry into the major-label arena after building buzz with independent releases.[22] This deal positioned him for broader exposure, leveraging the electropop sound that had gained traction online. The Ready Set's major-label debut album, I'm Alive, I'm Dreaming, arrived on June 15, 2010, via Sire and Decaydance, featuring a blend of synth-driven pop tracks produced by collaborators including J.R. Rotem and Matt Squire.[23] The record debuted at number 3 on the Billboard Heatseekers Albums chart, reflecting its strong initial appeal among emerging artists.[24] Its lead single, "Love Like Woe"—co-written and produced by Rotem—propelled the project forward, peaking at number 27 on the Billboard Hot 100 after steady radio airplay and digital sales.[25] The accompanying music video, directed by Chris Marrs Piliero and produced by Ryan Kohler, depicted Witzigreuter navigating vibrant, surreal dreamscapes, enhancing the song's playful, romantic theme and contributing to its crossover success on pop radio.[26] Capitalizing on this momentum, The Ready Set released the follow-up EP Feel Good Now on October 11, 2011, through the same labels.[27] Produced primarily by Ian Kirkpatrick, the five-track digital edition spotlighted upbeat cuts like "Killer"—a high-energy anthem about emotional intensity—and "Hollywood Dream," alongside "Back to Back," "A Little More," and "Notions," emphasizing themes of youth and escapism.[28] Promotional efforts for the EP included media features and live performances, building on prior MTV exposure such as the artist's 2010 Buzzworthy blog spotlight and VMA Tour appearances.[2]

2012–2015: Independent releases and The Bad & The Better

Following the release of his 2011 EP Feel Good Now under Decaydance Records, Jordan Witzigreuter parted ways with the label and its parent company Warner Bros., transitioning to independent status with his next project already underway.[8] This shift marked a period of artistic experimentation amid the evolving music industry landscape, where he leveraged the lingering momentum from his earlier hit "Love Like Woe" to sustain fan engagement during the transition. In May 2012, he independently released the single "Give Me Your Hand (Best Song Ever)," a synth-pop track that showcased his signature upbeat energy while hinting at more introspective elements in his evolving sound.[29][30] By early 2014, Witzigreuter signed with Razor & Tie Records, enabling a more structured rollout for his third full-length album, The Bad & The Better, released on May 27. The lead single "Higher," dropped in April, captured themes of escapism and emotional highs, setting the tone for the album's blend of pop hooks and vulnerability.[31] Produced primarily by Ian Kirkpatrick with additional contributions from Andrew Goldstein, the record delved into personal reflection on relationships, self-doubt, and growth, as evident in tracks exploring dreamlike states and the complexities of perfection in love.[32][33] The album achieved moderate commercial success, debuting on the Billboard 200 and reinforcing Witzigreuter's mid-tier presence in the electropop scene. To promote The Bad & The Better, Witzigreuter joined the 2014 Vans Warped Tour, performing alongside punk and alternative acts to a dedicated festival audience and expanding his live following.[34] This era highlighted his artistic maturation, with collaborations like those with Goldstein allowing for a polished yet authentic sound that balanced commercial appeal and genuine introspection, solidifying his path toward future independent ventures.[35]

2016–2018: Hopeless Records era with I Will Be Nothing Without Your Love and V1 & V2

In early 2016, The Ready Set signed with Hopeless Records, marking a significant revitalization after a period of independent releases.[36] This partnership facilitated the release of his fifth studio album, I Will Be Nothing Without Your Love, on April 8, 2016, which he self-produced and which showcased a maturation in his electropop sound with tropical influences offsetting introspective elements. The album's lead single, "Good Enough," premiered alongside the signing announcement, blending upbeat electronic production with vulnerable lyrics about self-doubt in relationships.[37] Lyrically, I Will Be Nothing Without Your Love delved into themes of heartbreak, emotional dependency, and personal recovery, as evident in tracks like "Concrete," which explores the difficulty of leaving a toxic partnership, and the title track, which reflects on the fear of losing one's identity without love.[38] These elements helped reconnect with fans by blending relatable emotional depth with accessible pop structures, building on the raw introspection of his prior independent work from 2012–2015.[39] The release emphasized a shift toward more genuine, less formulaic songwriting, allowing Witzigreuter to address personal struggles through vivid, narrative-driven verses.[40] Following the album, The Ready Set continued his Hopeless era with two EPs that further experimented with his sound. V1, released on March 16, 2018, featured six tracks of nostalgic guitar-pop, highlighted by the radiant single "Life in Pink," which combined minimal 808 bass and drums with reflective lyrics on fleeting youth and optimism.[41] This EP captured a stripped-back, acoustic-leaning vibe that evoked emotional reconnection and growth.[42] V2, arriving on August 10, 2018, expanded to seven tracks of vibrant indie-electronic and dance-oriented material, starting with the atmospheric opener "Hanami" and including the single "Stitch," which infused hyper-pop energy with themes of mending emotional wounds.[43] Described as an unplanned collection born from ongoing creativity, it highlighted a playful yet mature evolution, blending hypnotic beats and uplifting melodies to reinforce fan engagement through its summery, immersive production.[44]

2019–2022: Transition to Onlychild and Swim Team Records

In 2019, Jordan Witzigreuter adopted the moniker Onlychild as a solo project to explore more introspective and experimental sounds, distinct from his work as The Ready Set. This transition began with the release of the four-track EP Solstice on July 26, 2019, which featured lo-fi and alternative pop tracks including "Evergreen," "Royal Blue," "Crimson Red," and "Yellow Jacket." The EP marked a shift toward raw, personal expression, building on the emotional themes of vulnerability from his Hopeless Records era but emphasizing standalone songs with subtle narrative continuity.[45] Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Witzigreuter continued releasing music under Onlychild, adapting to remote production amid cancelled tours and creative burnout from disrupted routines. Key singles included "Chardonnay & Tangerine" and "Thank Me Later" in 2020, followed by "Sloppy" and "Waste" in 2021, totaling twelve singles over the period that highlighted evolving synth-pop elements with honest, authentic lyrics. These releases allowed for focused home-based experimentation, though the lack of live performances limited promotion and fan engagement.[46][47][48] In January 2021, Witzigreuter co-founded Swim Team Records with collaborator Cameron Walker-Wright, establishing an independent label and creative conglomerate to support his projects and sign emerging artists. The venture handled distribution for Onlychild's ongoing work while fostering collaborations, such as with American singer UPSAHL, enabling greater control over artistic output post-label affiliations. This entrepreneurial move underscored Witzigreuter's pivot toward label management during a period of self-directed creativity.[46]

2023–present: Revival as The Ready Set, Cherryland, and Big Machine signing

In 2023, Jordan Witzigreuter revived his project as The Ready Set following a period of experimentation under the alias Onlychild, which served as a creative recharge allowing him to return to his original moniker with renewed focus. The revival began with the release of the single "Who You Really Are" on May 26, 2023, marking his first original output under the name in several years. This led to the announcement of his sixth studio album, Cherryland, on August 25, 2023, which was independently released on October 27, 2023. The album blends synth-pop elements with introspective themes of self-acceptance and artistic vulnerability, drawing from Witzigreuter's personal growth to create narrative-driven tracks that explore overthinking and emotional release. On May 20, 2024, Witzigreuter signed an exclusive co-publishing agreement with Big Machine Music, expanding his role as a songwriter and producer for other artists while continuing to develop his own catalog. This deal highlighted his established hits like "Love Like Woe" and the recent success of Cherryland, positioning him for broader industry collaborations. A deluxe version of Cherryland followed in 2024, adding four new songs to the original tracklist and further emphasizing its synth-driven sound. Throughout 2024 and into 2025, Witzigreuter supported Cherryland with select live performances, including a full-album show at Le Poisson Rouge in New York on October 19, 2024, featuring supporting acts Emlyn, Dreamfone, and Night Glitch. He also performed at the Subculture Heart Destroyers Fest at Catch One in Los Angeles on February 15, 2025. As of November 2025, no new full-length albums have been announced, though singles such as "Better Man" continued to emerge, maintaining momentum without a major release slate.

Artistry

Musical styles

The Ready Set's music is primarily characterized as synth-pop and electropop, featuring upbeat tempos, auto-tuned vocals, and electronic production that creates a vibrant, danceable energy.[49][50] Early releases, such as the 2010 album I'm Alive, I'm Dreaming, exemplify this through heavy reliance on synthesized melodies and polished, radio-friendly hooks.[23][51] Over time, the sonic palette evolved from bubblegum pop's sugary, infectious choruses in the initial phase to more experimental indie electronic forms during the 2016–2018 period, incorporating genre-blending elements like funky rhythms and synth-driven layers.[52][53] This shift is evident in albums like I Will Be Nothing Without Your Love, where tracks blend pop synthesizers with subtle rock influences, moving toward a softer, more introspective tone while retaining electronic cores.[53] By 2023's Cherryland (deluxe edition 2024), the style progressed to narrative-driven alt-pop with integrated rock and electronic textures, emphasizing emotional depth over pure catchiness, a direction that continues in the 2025 single "Better Man."[54][9][55] Production techniques consistently involve layering synthesizers for atmospheric builds and drum machines for propulsive beats, contributing to the genre's signature immediacy.[51][53] Later works introduce occasional live band elements, such as guitar strums and organic percussion, to add warmth and texture without abandoning the electronic foundation.[53][54]

Influences and songwriting

Witzigreuter has identified the indie rock band Copeland as a primary influence, particularly for its emotional depth, singing style, and melodic structures that shaped his approach to conveying vulnerability in music.[56][57] He has also cited inspiration from Daft Punk and Kanye West, drawing from electronic and dance music elements through collaborations, incorporating innovative production techniques that add layers to his compositions. His electropop style serves as the primary canvas for blending these influences into cohesive tracks. Witzigreuter's songwriting process typically begins with crafting melody hooks, often using spontaneous ideas or random words that evolve into full structures, before layering in narrative verses drawn from personal observations.[58] His lyrics are frequently autobiographical, exploring themes of love, loss, and personal growth through reflections on real-life experiences and situational inspirations.[59][12] Over time, his work has evolved from the youthful optimism of his 2000s releases, characterized by upbeat, exploratory pop, to a more mature introspection in the 2020s, with deeper, sadder lyrical themes offset by tropical and calculated production choices, as seen in recent releases like the Cherryland deluxe edition (2024) and "Better Man" (2025), which emphasize healing and resilience.[40] This progression has been influenced by collaborations, which have introduced co-writing credits and refined his techniques for authenticity and structure.[58][60]

Band and collaborations

Touring members under The Ready Set

During the 2010–2018 period, The Ready Set's live performances under major-label and independent releases were supported by a core touring lineup consisting of a drummer, guitarist, bassist, and keyboardist, enabling full-band renditions at events like the Vans Warped Tour and various festivals.[12][61] From 2010 to 2012, this included bassist Andy Snyder, who performed on tours such as the mtvU VMA Tour, alongside drummer Travis Rountree and guitarist Deryck Stanek, with occasional additional guitarist Keegan Weckler.[62][63] By 2013–2015, the lineup shifted to feature bassist Mike Naran, bassist and keyboardist Nick Annis, and continued with drummer Travis Rountree for Warped Tour sets and festival appearances.[64][65] Following the 2016 signing with Hopeless Records and tours promoting I Will Be Nothing Without Your Love, the ensemble incorporated synth specialists to enhance the electro-pop elements, with Nick Annis providing keyboards alongside drummer Travis Rountree and rotating guitarists like Mike Naran.[66][64] This configuration supported dynamic live sets emphasizing synthesized textures during the label era.[67] In the 2023–2025 revival phase, coinciding with the Cherryland release and Big Machine signing, The Ready Set adopted a smaller touring ensemble for select shows, including drummer Dave Briggs, who has credited performances with the project on his professional portfolio.[68] For Cherryland live events, the band featured collaborators like singer Emlyn and the project Dreamfone for shared sets.[69]

Touring members under Onlychild

During the Onlychild phase from 2019 to 2022, Jordan Witzigreuter operated as a solo project without dedicated touring members, focusing primarily on studio recordings such as the Solstice EP and subsequent singles.[46] Live performances were infrequent, including a debut show at The Sayers Club in Los Angeles on July 18, 2019, often limited to small venues or virtual formats amid the COVID-19 pandemic, featuring Witzigreuter alone with minimal electronic setups or occasional guest vocalists rather than a consistent band.[70][10] This stripped-down approach contrasted with the fuller band configurations of prior eras, emphasizing lo-fi and acoustic-leaning renditions influenced by the transition from Hopeless Records touring.[46]

Personal life

Family and relationships

Witzigreuter maintains a close relationship with his parents, who, despite not being musically inclined, provided strong support for his early interest in music by allowing practices at home and backing his pursuits.[71] His upbringing in Fort Wayne, Indiana, instilled family values centered on encouragement and stability that continue to influence his personal life. Witzigreuter has two siblings, including a brother who is also a musician, as mentioned in public interviews. Several of Witzigreuter's songs from the 2010s draw inspiration from past romantic relationships, often referencing anonymous ex-partners in themes of love and heartbreak, though he has kept specific details private.[72] Witzigreuter married his longtime girlfriend Katelyn Gentry in late 2017. Post-2020, he has maintained a high level of privacy regarding his personal life, focusing instead on professional endeavors. As of 2025, Witzigreuter leads a low-profile personal life rooted in Fort Wayne, with no public information on children.[73]

Activism and philanthropy

Jordan Witzigreuter, performing as The Ready Set, has actively supported animal rights through partnerships with People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). In 2015, he participated in PETA's print campaign promoting animal adoption, featuring the message "Adoption Is Love" to encourage fans to adopt shelter animals rather than purchase from breeders.[74] He also appeared in a PETA anti-fur advertisement titled "Grow Your Own Fur," advocating against the use of animal skins in fashion.[75] These efforts culminated in Witzigreuter receiving peta2's ninth annual Libby Award for Most Animal-Friendly Band in 2014, recognized for inviting peta2 representatives on tour to educate attendees about animal adoption and welfare.[76] Witzigreuter's music under The Ready Set often explores themes of personal vulnerability, including mental health challenges, contributing to broader awareness in his discography. His 2023 album Cherryland incorporates chaotic synth-pop elements to evoke feelings of anxiety and self-deprecation, as he described the record's sound as intentionally mirroring emotional turmoil to connect with listeners facing similar experiences.[77] These themes stem in part from his Midwestern upbringing in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where values of authenticity and resilience shaped his songwriting approach to mental health topics.

Works

Studio albums

The Ready Set's debut major-label studio album, I'm Alive, I'm Dreaming, was released on June 15, 2010, through Decaydance and Sire Records. It peaked at number 3 on the US Heatseekers Albums chart and number 172 on the Billboard Top Current Album Sales chart. His second studio album, The Bad & the Better, came out on May 27, 2014, via Razor & Tie. It peaked at number 75 on the Billboard 200. The third studio album, I Will Be Nothing Without Your Love, was issued on April 8, 2016, by Hopeless Records. It peaked at number 24 on the US Independent Albums chart. The fourth studio album, Cherryland, was self-released on October 27, 2023, under The Ready Set Music. A deluxe edition followed on May 10, 2024.

Extended plays

The Ready Set's earliest release, the EP Syntax and Bright Lights, was independently released in 2008.[78] This was followed by the EP Tantrum Castle in 2009, also self-released.[79] The EP Feel Good Now arrived on March 22, 2011, through Sire Records. It peaked at number 179 on the Billboard 200.[80] Later EPs include V1 in 2018 and V2 in 2018, both self-released.[9] Under the moniker Onlychild, the EP Solstice was released in 2019, consisting of four tracks.[47]

Singles

The Ready Set has released 19 singles across his career. Notable examples include "Love Like Woe" from 2010, which peaked at number 27 on the Billboard Hot 100, number 15 on the Pop Airplay chart, and was certified platinum by the RIAA for sales exceeding 1,000,000 units. "Give Me Your Hand (Best Song Ever)" in 2012 reached number 30 on the Mainstream Top 40 chart. "Maniac," released in 2016 as the lead single from I Will Be Nothing Without Your Love. Under Onlychild, "Paper Heart" was issued in 2020.[47] "Better Man" was released as a single in 2025.[9]

Other projects

In the 2010s, Jordan Witzigreuter contributed to the side project Nekokat, a synthpop supergroup, on tracks including those from the EP Pleasure Beach (2018) and the single "Haunted" (2017).[81][82]

Filmography and other media

The Ready Set has released several music videos to promote his singles, often featuring thematic elements tied to his electropop style. The official music video for "Love Like Woe," released in 2010, was directed by Chris Marrs Piliero and depicts a zombie apocalypse narrative, aligning with the song's energetic breakup theme.[83] In 2011, the web video for "Killer" showcased Witzigreuter in a high-energy performance setting, emphasizing the track's synth-driven production from the EP Feel Good Now.[84] For the 2023 album Cherryland, singles such as "Act 2" received an accompanying music video in December 2023, featuring narrative storytelling elements, while "April Rain" followed with a video release the same year to promote the independent project.[85][69] In film, The Ready Set contributed to the soundtrack of the 2012 Disney film The Odd Life of Timothy Green, where his track "Love Like Woe" appeared during key emotional scenes, marking an early crossover into family-oriented cinema.[86] Beyond videos and films, The Ready Set made guest appearances on MTV programming in 2010–2011, including a performance on the T.J. Search Live Finale and selection as an MTV Push Artist of the Week in September 2010, which boosted his visibility through curated online features.[87] He also participated in the MTV VMA Tour webisodes that year, documenting tour experiences in episodic content.[88] In 2011, he appeared on MTV's Silent Library celebrity edition, enduring comedic challenges alongside other artists like All Time Low.[89] In other media, following his 2024 signing to Big Machine Music for publishing, Witzigreuter discussed songwriting processes in promotional interviews, including podcast-style segments focused on his evolution from electropop to indie influences, though specific episode details emphasize broader career retrospectives rather than dedicated shows.[5]

Recognition

Awards and nominations

The Ready Set has received recognition for his music and animal rights activism through various awards and nominations. In 2011, he was nominated in the Most Animal-Friendly Band category at PETA's ninth annual Libby Awards.[90] In 2014, The Ready Set won the peta2 Libby Award for Most Animal-Friendly Band, credited for inviting peta2 representatives on tour to promote animal adoption awareness among fans.[76] No major awards or nominations have been reported since 2014 as of 2025.

Tours and live performances

The Ready Set's early live performances began with regional shows following the release of his debut EP Syntax and Bright Lights in January 2008, evolving into full-time touring by late 2008 with support slots alongside acts like Backseat Goodbye on an East Coast and Midwest run.[91] By 2010, he gained prominence on the Bamboozle Roadshow tour, performing alongside major acts such as All Time Low, LMFAO, and Good Charlotte across multiple U.S. dates, which marked a significant step in building his fanbase through high-energy electro-pop sets.[92] That fall, Witzigreuter supported Cartel on their tour with Hey Monday, This Century, and We Are the In Crowd, delivering intimate club performances that highlighted his transition from bedroom producer to stage performer.[93] In 2014, The Ready Set joined the Vans Warped Tour as a main stage act, playing over 40 dates nationwide and receiving praise for his dynamic blend of pop and rock that engaged festival crowds, solidifying his presence in the punk and alternative scene.[94] After signing with Hopeless Records in early 2016, he headlined several U.S. tours, including the Fight for Something Tour with Tonight Alive and Set It Off, which showcased his maturing sound through sold-out venues and emphasized themes of resilience in live interpretations.[95] From 2016 to 2018, he participated in label-backed showcases and festival appearances, allowing for experimentation with fuller band arrangements that shifted his shows toward a more rock-oriented energy while maintaining pop accessibility.[96] During the Onlychild era from 2019 to 2022, live activity was curtailed by the COVID-19 pandemic, limiting performances to virtual livestreams and occasional small-venue pop-ups amid restrictions. Post-pandemic, The Ready Set resumed touring with the Cherryland Tour in 2024, performing full album sets at venues like Le Poisson Rouge in New York on October 19, where audiences celebrated the nostalgic yet evolved electro-indie vibe with enthusiastic sing-alongs.[97] Into 2025, he has scheduled standalone dates, including a February 15 show at Catch One in Los Angeles, focusing on stripped-back, immersive experiences that reflect his ongoing artistic growth.[98]

References

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  58. THE READY SET: ON BEING EX-EMO, MAKING HIS BIGGEST HIT ...
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  94. OUR ARTISTS - Hopeless Records
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  96. The Ready Set concert - Los Angeles, Catch One, Feb 15, 2025
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