This young, Dallas-born, pop-rock star picked up a guitar at the age of 16 and has been writing and recording music ever since. His early career was defined by a long string of nights in bars, restaurants, and clubs. Cabrera eventually landed a gig playing acoustic guitar for the band Rubix Groove, which opened for internationally known acts such as Cheap Trick and Third Eye Blind. Through this connection, as well as on the strength of some original material, Cabrera impressed a studio executive which led to the recording of his first full-length album, "Elm Street," in 2001. Just three short years later, he was signed to Atlantic Records and released his major label debut single "On The Way Down." Since 2004, the now 30-year-old Cabrera has sold millions of albums, appeared in several episodes of "The Hills," and dated Ashlee Simpson. Indie/acoustic quintet, Rookie of the Year also performs.

Ryan Cabrera plays Tuesday, October 23, 6 p.m. at The Montage Music Hall, 50 Chestnut St. $10-$25. 413-1642, frontgatetickets.com.