From stepping away from the drum kit to becoming the rhythmic force behind Little River Band, Ryan Ricks’ journey is a testament to passion rediscovered and the irresistible pull of music. For fans of Little River Band Songs, Ricks brings a dynamic energy and vocal talent that perfectly complements their timeless hits.
Ryan Ricks, the drummer of Little River Band, performing songs live
Ricks’ path wasn’t a straight line to the iconic band known for unforgettable songs. After years of touring and playing in Nashville, he experienced burnout and a sense of lacking “success”. This led him to step away from professional drumming entirely. He recounted, “I basically quit and was searching.” During this period of reflection, his musical engagement was limited to playing at church, a place that ironically led him to his wife. Life took a turn towards the world of IT, a stark contrast to the stages he once graced. He found satisfaction in his new career and family life, even selling his drum kit, seemingly closing the chapter on his musical aspirations.
However, music has a way of calling back its devotees. For fifteen years, Ricks focused on listening to music purely for enjoyment, a shift from listening analytically to improve his drumming. He described this time as transformative, “I started to really listen to the groove, feel the pocket, and sing the vocal part. I discovered that I was hearing the music in a different way.” This period of musical immersion rekindled his dormant passion and refined his understanding of rhythm and song structure, elements crucial to Little River Band songs.
The unexpected turning point arrived via an email from Rich Herring, an old bandmate then playing with Little River Band. This invitation presented Ricks with “one last hoorah” – an opportunity to revisit his musical dreams. Initially hesitant, the proposition resonated with the changes he’d undergone during his time away. Six months later, Ricks found himself the drummer and vocalist for Little River Band, juggling his IT career with the demands of touring and performing the very songs he had grown to appreciate from a new perspective.
Joining Little River Band coincided with the band’s new album production. Ricks contributed significantly to the vocals on this project, further cementing his role beyond just drumming. He recognized the perfect fit with LRB, stating, “The Little River Band is probably the perfect band for me because of the dual importance of drumming and singing.” This dual role allows him to showcase his skills while contributing to the harmonies and melodies that define Little River Band songs. His priority, he emphasizes, is always “to play for the music,” a philosophy that undoubtedly enhances the live performances of classic hits and newer tracks alike. Fans attending Little River Band concerts can expect to hear their favorite songs performed with renewed vigor and precision thanks to Ricks’ dedication.
Little River Band album cover featuring some of their popular songs
Ricks’ drumming setup reflects his professional approach. He utilizes a Mapex Saturn series kit with a Yamaha brass snare and Sabian cymbals, opting for in-ear monitors for a clear and precise sound, vital for balancing drumming and singing, particularly in live renditions of Little River Band songs. When discussing his favorite songs to perform live, Ricks mentions “Night Owls,” a track originally featuring a shuffle beat by Derek Pellicci. Ricks’ subtle alteration, incorporating triplet ghost notes inspired by drumming legends, adds a personal touch while honoring the song’s groove. His drumming influences, including Steve Gadd, Jeff Porcaro, and Phil Collins, are evident in his nuanced and musical style, which elevates the performance of Little River Band songs.
Ryan Ricks’ journey to Little River Band is a unique story of rediscovery and musical fulfillment. His advice to fellow musicians, “Listen more and play for the music,” encapsulates his approach and serves as a valuable lesson for anyone passionate about creating meaningful music, especially when interpreting and performing beloved songs like those in the Little River Band catalog. For those eager to experience his drumming and vocal contributions firsthand, exploring Little River Band songs both live and recorded is highly recommended.
