Today we’d like to introduce you to Ric Roccapriore.
Hi Ric, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I was born into a musical family. Everyone played an instrument as a hobby, but my brother Roy really tried to make it. We are from the New England area, and he moved to LA, but unfortunately, it was very tough for him. I basically fought my way to my success. I was rejected by Berklee College of School and had to attend another college before they would accept me. I could not read music well and had a learning disability.
I had to swallow my pride, but I did finally attend Berklee made a ton of contacts, and was exposed to a ton of music classes and experiences.
I joined many Boston locals’ bands that did well and taught me how to play funk and reggae, but I craved something more, so I took a chance and moved to Los Angeles. This is where I landed many national touring acts, starting with classic rocker Edgar Winter and then 90s pop star Sophie B. Hawkins for 5 years. I then ended up with Engelbert Humperdinck and toured the world for 7 years! I picked up some sub-dates with Jason Mraz, Latin Legends Rock band, “Malo,” and even did a reality TV show with Seal! I joined the 80’s band Berlin after the pandemic and did major tours billed with Howard Jones and Culture Club.
Berlin has really made me a ton of connections and checked off a ton of my bucket lists, including two back-to-back nights at the Hollywood Bowl.
I also started my own band, Catfish Critters, and released an album in 2023 entitled “Resume.” It’s a tribute to New Orleans music and the artists I’ve been lucky to play for throughout my career.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Struggles include getting into Berklee College of Music. A learning disability.
Playing the Boston scene while club owners stiff you or paid very little. Having to deal with musicians who are don’t like you working with other bands, etc
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m mostly known as a touring musician, but last year, I released my first album entitled Resume. The band name is Catfish Critters and is a tribute to New Orleans music and the national touring artists I’ve toured with.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Work hard!!! Stay focused and prepare for a ton of ups and downs, but it’s all worth it if you love what you do!
Do not take anything for granted, and give back somehow by helping those less fortunate or young players.
Always stay humble and grounded, and give yourself a break when you’re not. We are only human!
Contact Info:
- Website: ricrocc.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ricrocca?igsh=NGVhN2U2NjQ0Yg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ric.rocc?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ric-roccapriore-777389a?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ricrocc?si=p70lFE8QTwZobfDy
Image Credits
Travis Surber
Al Navarro
Eric Volfango
Johan Frank
