Hello! I’m Ryan Ricks, and I hold the drumsticks and microphone for the Little River Band. My path to becoming part of a band known for iconic songs was anything but a straight line. After college, my musical journey began touring with Lacy J. Dalton, which then led to extensive work within Nashville’s vibrant music scene. I played in clubs, colleges, and even on cruise ships, honing my skills and stage presence.
Ryan Ricks of the Little River Band
My role as a vocalist grew during these years, and I found myself equally comfortable behind the drum kit and center stage singing. However, a sense of stagnation crept in. Questioning my direction and motivation, I stepped away from the drums, seeking something more. During this period of reflection, my drumming was limited to church performances, which ironically led me to meet my wife.
Unexpectedly, I was offered a singing role with Loretta Lynn a few years later – a fantastic experience that lasted two years. Yet, the career path remained unclear, leading me to another significant change. I made a complete break, returning to school and diving into the world of IT and computers. At thirty, I secured an internship and eventually a position at a large healthcare company. I found satisfaction and success in this new field, becoming a husband, father to a daughter adopted from China, and an IT consultant.
For fifteen years, the drumsticks were set aside, and my drums were sold. This period of musical abstinence had an unexpected benefit. I began to truly listen to music for enjoyment, not just for technical learning. Instead of focusing on drumming techniques, I immersed myself in the groove, the pocket, and the vocal melodies of countless songs, including classic Little River Band songs. I discovered a new way of hearing music. When I tapped along to drum parts, it felt more intuitive and enjoyable. The thought, “It’s a shame I’m not playing anymore, I think I’d really love it now,” often crossed my mind.
Then, an email from Rich Herring, a Nashville musician I had previously played with, changed everything. Rich, who had been with the Little River Band for seven years, presented an unexpected opportunity. He proposed a “last hoorah” back into the music world, mentioning a potential opening. Initially, it seemed improbable. But six months later, I found myself joining the Little River Band, suddenly juggling two full-time careers.
Little River Band Cuts Like a Diamond
Joining the Little River Band was perfectly timed as they were in the midst of planning a new album. I contributed vocals extensively to the project, a truly rewarding experience. For me, the Little River Band is an ideal fit, perfectly blending the importance of both drumming and singing – two passions I strive to perfect each night on stage, performing both new tracks and beloved Little River Band songs. My primary goal is to serve the music, a philosophy I bring to every performance, ensuring each song resonates with the audience.
I am grateful for my artist relationship with Mapex drums. My setup includes a Saturn series kit with 10″, 12″, 14″, and 16″ toms, a 22″ kick, and a 6.5″ Yamaha brass snare. I rely on Sabian cymbals, including a 21″ ride, two 18″ crashes, a 17″ crash, an 8″ splash, and 15″ hi-hats. The band utilizes custom in-ear monitors from LiveWires, eliminating the need for stage wedges. This is crucial for balancing drumming and singing, demanding a clear and precise monitor mix that requires constant adjustment to suit different live venues.
One of my favorite Little River Band songs to perform live is “Night Owls.” The original recording features Derek Pellicci’s excellent shuffle. I’ve added my own touch, incorporating triplet ghost notes on the snare, inspired by drumming legends like Bernard Purdie and Jeff Porcaro. It’s an incredibly enjoyable groove to play, especially while handling lead vocals, making it a fulfilling challenge. My drumming influences, in no particular order, include Steve Gadd, Jeff Porcaro, Manu Katche, Phil Collins, and Stewart Copeland, each shaping my approach to rhythm and performance in Little River Band songs and beyond.
My advice to aspiring musicians: listen intently and always play for the music.
Discover more about the Little River Band at http://littleriverband.com.
