Friday, December 23, 2016

Rick's mother passes away


We have received the sad news that Rick's mother, Eileen Springthorpe passed away on December 21, 2016. Eileen was blessed with 96 years of life.

Rick has requested that memorials be given to the Linda Blair Worldheart Foundation.

Please keep Rick and his family in your prayers during this difficult time.

Shows announced

Several new tour dates have been added to the schedule:

Lawrenceburg Event Center
Lawrenceburg, IN
February 4, 2017
Full band show

Hard Rock Live
Orlando, FL
February 26, 2017
Full band show

Sunrise Theater
Fort Pierce, FL
March 3, 2017
Full band show

Parker Playhouse
Fort Lauderdale, FL
March 5, 2017
Stripped Down show

Photo by Renata Hearn

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

Full band shows announced

Several full band shows have been announced for 2017:

Riverwind Casino
Norman, OK
February 18, 2017

Florida Theater
Jacksonville, FL
March 2, 2017

Photo by Renata Hearn


Monday, December 12, 2016

2017 shows announced


All of the following dates are "Stripped Down" shows.

Durham Performing Arts Center
Includes Richard Marx - Acoustic set
Durham, NC
January 27, 2017

Benedum Center
Includes Richard Marx - Acoustic set
Pittsburgh, PA
January 28, 2017

EJ Thomas Hall
Includes Richard Marx - Acoustic set
Akron, OH
January 29, 2017

Clark State Performing Arts Center
Springfield, OH
February 14, 2017

Charleston Music Hall
Charleston, SC
May 11, 2017

Francis Marion Performing Arts Center
Florence, SC
May 12, 2017

Photo by Renata Hearn


Friday, November 25, 2016

Tour dates rescheduled


This weekend's shows have been rescheduled due to Rick being ill. Tickets purchased for the following shows will be honored on the new dates.

11/25/16 - Beverly, MA - Cabot Theater - new date: 12/17/16

11/26/16 - Englewood, NJ - Bergen Performing Arts Center - new date: 2/8/17

11/27/16 - Collingswood, NJ - Scottish Rite Auditorium - new date 2/17/17

Photo by Renata Hearn

Thursday, November 17, 2016

California "Stripped Down"



Just announced:

Chumash Casino - Samala Showroom
Santa Ynez, CA
January 19, 2017
Stripped Down show

Photo by Carol Mercer

Monday, November 14, 2016

Richard Marx & Rick solo shows

Richard Marx will be joining Rick for three acoustic shows in early 2017.

1/21/17 - Roanoke, VA - Berglund Performing Arts Theater

1/22/17 - Richmond, VA - Carpenter Theater

2/16/17 - Detroit, MI - Fox Theater

Monday, November 7, 2016

2016 Tour Dates

There's still time to see Rick Springfield in concert before the end of 2016. Check out the following dates.

Full band shows:
11/17/16 - Meridian, MS - MSU Riley Center
11/18/16 - Austin, TX - Paramount Theater
11/19/16 - Miami, OK - Buffalo Run Casino
11/20/16 - Longview, TX - Belcher Center

Stripped Down shows:
11/25/16 - Beverly, MA - Cabot Theater
11/26/16 - Englewood, NJ - Bergen Performing Arts Center
11/27/16 - Collingswood, NJ - Scottish Rite Auditorium
12/14/16 - Red Bank, NJ - Count Basie Theater
12/15/16 - Peekskill, NY - Paramount Theater
12/16/16 - N. Tonawanda, NY - Riviera Theater

Photo by Renata Hearn

Wednesday, August 24, 2016

November tour dates

November shows just announced:

Longview, TX 
November 20, 2016
Full band show

Englewood, NJ
November 26, 2016
Stripped Down show

Collingswood, NJ
November 27, 2016
Stripped Down show

Photo by Karen Berean


Sunday, August 21, 2016

Happy Birthday Rick


The Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC will be rockin Tuesday, August 23rd when lucky fans, Night Ranger and the Romantics join Rick to celebrate his 67th birthday.
You continue to amaze us with your talent, creativity and energy. Wishing you health and prosperity.


Happy Birthday from Rick Springfield and US.


Tuesday, August 16, 2016

Concert dates announced


Full band shows have been added to the fall tour schedule:

Family Arena
St. Charles, MO
October 15, 2016
Special guests: Loverboy & Tommy Tutone

Buffalo Run Casino
Miami, OK
November 19, 2016

Photo by Renata Hearn


Richard Marx - Rick Springfield Acoustic shows

Just announced: Richard Marx will be joining Rick for two special shows in October.
Richard and Rick will each be performing full acoustic sets.

Weidner Center for Performing Arts Center
Green Bay, WI
October 29, 2016

State Theater
Minneapolis, MN
October 30, 2016

Sunday, August 14, 2016

Tour dates - August

The remainder of August will be a busy month for the tour. There are no shows scheduled for September, so get your tickets now for a night of music and fun with Rick and the band.

8/18 - Brooklyn, NY - The Amphitheater at Coney Island Boardwalk
8/19 - Bethlehem, PA - Sands Bethlehem Event Center
8/20 - Atlantic City, NJ - Golden Nugget
8/23 - Asheville, NC - The Biltmore Estate
8/25 - Raleigh, NC - Red Hat Amphitheater
8/26 - Charlotte, NC - Charlotte Metro Credit Union Amphitheater
8/27 - Myrtle Beach, SC - Myrtle Beach Speedway
8/28 - Atlanta, GA - Chastain Park Amphitheater

*Night Ranger and The Romantics - will be performing with Rick at each of these shows, except 8/20 in Atlantic City.

Photo by Mike Gerken


Saturday, August 13, 2016

Sterling Heights, MI review

Review by Laurie Bedigian/Photos by Mike Gerken

The heat was on last Thursday, August 11th at the Freedom Hill Amphitheater in Sterling Heights, MI. It was time again for what could be considered an annual event - the WOMC 80's fest featuring our musical hero, Rick Springfield.

This year, Rick was joined by Jack Blades and Night Ranger. Also on the ticket were Detroit's favorite sons, the Romantics.

On one of the hottest days and evenings this summer, Rick took the stage for over 90 minutes of music and fun. It was clear that our guy was as warm as the rest of us, but that didn't stop him. Dressed in black shorts and a Ramones t, Rick told the audience that he was "even sweating back stage."

This was a traditional full band show which included some old favorites and some new songs from the "Rocket Science" record. He opened the show with a new song - "Light This Party Up" which was followed by "I've Done Everything For You" and "I Get Excited".

As he generally does, Rick did a medley of old favorites. Even in the 90 plus degree heat, Rick made his way through the crowd during "Don't Talk To Strangers" for some audience participation.

"Human Touch", "Love Somebody" and "Jessie's Girl" came along later in the evening. The show ended with a powerful version of "Kristina". 

At one point early in the show, Rick reminded us that it was his birthday. The crowd willingly sang "Happy Birthday" led of course by our Rick.  His actual birthday is August 23.  Believe it or not, Rick turns 67!

Happy Birthday Rick - Thanks for another unforgettable  evening in Michigan!

Wednesday, August 10, 2016

Interlochen, MI review

Rick Springfield Stripped Down
Interlochen Michigan, July 27, 2016
Review by Laurie Bedigian
Photos by Karen Berean & Darla Gerken

This was my second Stripped Down show and my ninth Rick show in total.  Yes, I’m a novice compared to many of Rick’s devoted fans who travel far and wide to see his show.  Many have easily seen Rick dozens of times.

Interlochen was a four hour trip for me – the farthest I’ve traveled so far to see my musical hero.  And it was well worth the trip.  The venue was small and quite intimate.  Really, any seat in that house was a good one.

The show consisted of several Rick classics including “Love Somebody,” “I Get Excited,” “Affair of the Heart,” and “Don’t Talk to Strangers.”  There were a few cover songs like Badfinger’s “Baby Blue.”  And of course, some comical numbers like “If Wishes were Fishes” to keep the mood light.

With each song there was a story of how it came to be.  One particular favorite of mine is “Me & Johnny,” the song about Rick’s unlikely friendship with a boy (John) who used to bully him in school.  The two became close after bonding over their musical aspirations.

Rick shared other stories and experiences with the audience.  He spoke briefly about traveling back and forth to Vancouver to film “Supernatural.”  There was a slide show to Rick’s right which gave the audience a close look at family and friends.  And let us not forget the photos of the dogs that Rick has come to love.

Perhaps the most poignant moment of the night was when Rick shared the origin of “My Father’s Chair.”  The song plays tribute to Rick’s father and it’s an emotional story of the loss of a loved one.
Rick kept it together for the most part during the song.  But he got teary and a bit emotional at one point.  Looking around, much of the audience was also moved to tears.

The concert portion of the show concluded with an interesting version of “Jessie’s Girl.”  Rick’s band joined him onstage for the song (an unusual treat for a Stripped Down show).  The boys in the band made due with instruments rounded up at the venue.

After a brief couple of minutes, Rick returned to the stage to answer questions from the audience.  
In all, it was a wonderful show.  Seeing Rick feels like a visit with an old friend.  He’s wonderfully engaging, modestly sweet, and truly unforgettable.  This was definitely worth the four hour drive.

Sunday, August 7, 2016

October dates announced


Two full band shows have been added to the tour schedule:

Emerald Queen Casino
Tacoma, WA
October 1, 2016

Prairie Capital Convention
Springfield, IL
Special guest: Loverboy
October 14, 2016

Photo by Susan Fortune

Monday, July 25, 2016

'Supernatural' casts Rick Springfield as New Lucifer



Rick has been cast as the new Lucifer in the CW Network series "Supernatural".

Lucifer will appear in the first few episodes.

For more information on the announcement read the Hollywood Reporter article.

Wednesday, July 20, 2016

Walker, MN show cancelled

According to Rick's Twitter post, the Moondance Jam - Walker, MN show on Friday, July 22 has been cancelled due to a filming conflict.

Celebrating Youth

Great Huffiingtonpost article Celebrating Youth. A "birthday girl" and her "drummer" brother had a night to remember.

Monday, July 18, 2016

Arkansas State Fair


Rick will be performing at the Arkansas State Fair, Little Rock, Arkansas on Tuesday, October 18th.

Concert tickets are free with paid admission to the fair.

You can also purchase reserved seats, and VIP seats, starting Friday July 22.

For more information: Arkansas State Fair

Photo by Darla Gerken

Sunday, July 10, 2016

Minnesota "Stripped Down" show

 
The fall concert schedule has been updated with a new "Stripped Down" show:

Reif Center - Wilcox Theater
Grand Rapids, MN
October 8, 2016

Photo by Renata Hearn

Saturday, June 25, 2016

Columbus show cancelled


Due to Rick's illness, tonight's show (6/25) at the Eldorado Scioto Downs in Columbus, OH has been cancelled.

According to their Facebook page, the show will not be rescheduled.

Sending Rick lots of hugs!

Photo by Renata Hearn

Thursday, June 16, 2016

Concert date updates


Full band show:
Community Arts Center
Williamsport, PA
August 9, 2016

Stripped Down show:
MSU Riley Center
Meridian, MS
November 17, 2016

Photo by Mike Gerken

Friday, June 3, 2016

Rick Springfield 2016 Summer Tour Dates



(SD) - Stripped Down solo shows

June 9 - Niagara Falls, Ontario, CA - Niagara Fallsview Casino
June 10 - Niagara Falls, Ontario, CA - Niagara Fallsview Casino
June 11 - Norfolk, VA - Norfolk Harborfest
June 18 - Andover, KS - Andover Central Park
June 23 - New Orleans, LA - Bold Sphere Music at Champion Square
June 25 - Columbus, OH - Eldorado Scioto Downs
July 2 - Kettering, OH - Fraze Pavilion
July 3 - Elgin, IL - Festival Park
July 8 - Phoenix, AZ - Comerica Theater
July 9 - Las Vegas, NV - Mandalay Bay
July 10 - Ojai, CA - Libbey Bowl
July 12 - Saratoga, CA - Montalvo Arts Center
July 15 - Lincoln, CA - Thunder Valley Resort Amphitheater
July 16 - Los Angeles, CA - Greek Theater
July 17 - Valley Center, CA - Harrah's Resort So Cal
July 22 - Walker, MN - Moondance Jam
July 24 - Cleveland Heights, OH - Evans Amphitheater at Cain Park  (SD)
July 27 - Interlochen, MI - Kresge Auditorium (SD)
July 28 - Ottumwa, IA - Ottumwa Ragbrai
July 30 - Solomons, MD - Calvert Marine Museum
August 5 - Binghamton, NY - Spiedie Fest & Balloon Rally
August 6 - Lincoln, RI - Twin River Casino
August 11 - Sterling Heights, MI - Freedom Hill Amphitheater
August 12 - Moline, IL - iWireless Center
August 13 - Council Bluffs, IA - Stir Cove
August 18 - Brooklyn, NY - The Amphitheater at Coney Island Boardwalk
August 19 - Bethlehem, PA - Sands Bethlehem Event Center
August 20 - Atlantic City, NJ - Golden Nugget
August 23 - Asheville, NC - The Biltmore Estate
August 25 - Raleigh, NC - Red Hat Amphitheater
August 26 - Charlotte, NC - Charlotte Metro Credit Union Amphitheater
August 27 - Myrtle Beach, SC - Myrtle Beach Speedway
August 28 - Atlanta, GA - Chastain Park Amphitheater

Photo by Susan Fortune

Tuesday, May 31, 2016

Three shows announced


Full band shows just announced:

Chastain Park Amphitheater
Atlanta, GA
August 28, 2016

Golden Nugget
Lake Charles, LA
November 5, 2016

The Ranch Concert Hall
Fort Myers, FL
November 6, 2016

Photo by Yolla Abraham

Sunday, May 22, 2016

Tour dates announced

Full band shows that were just listed on the tour schedule:

Greek Fest 
Kalamazoo, MI
June 4, 2016

Golden Nugget
Atlantic City, NJ
August 20, 2016

Photo by Lynn Whiteford

Monday, May 16, 2016

Tour dates keep coming!


The following are full band shows:

Comerica Theater
Phoenix, AZ
Special guests: The Romantics and Tommy Tutone
July 8, 2016

iWireless Center
Moline, IL
Special guests: The Romantics and The Fixx
August 12, 2016

Photo by Renata Hearn

Tuesday, May 10, 2016

Ohio show announced


It's been a good year for Ohio, another show has been announced:

Eldorado Scioto Downs
Columbus, OH
June 25, 2016
Full band show

Photo by Shane Bakken

Friday, May 6, 2016

Tour dates added

Bold Sphere Music at Champion Square
New Orleans, LA
June 23, 2016
Full band show

Libbey Bowl
Ojai, CA
July 10, 2016
Full band show
Special guests: Night Ranger and Loverboy

Photo by Lucy Apple


Monday, May 2, 2016

More August shows announced

Stir Cove
Council Bluffs, IA
Special guests: The Fixx and the Romantics
August 13, 2016

Red Hat Amphitheater
Raleigh, NC
Special guests: Night Ranger and the Romantics
August 25, 2016


Charlotte Metro Credit Union Amphitheater
Charlotte, NC
Special guests: Night Ranger and the Romantics
August 26, 2016

Photo by Sandy Rance


Sunday, May 1, 2016

RICK SPRINGFIELD EMBODIES A TRUE ROCKSTAR

Sunfest 2016 West Palm Beach, FL
May 1, 2016 by Emily Bloch

To Rick’s Chicks — the unofficial name for Rick Springfield fans — Rick Springfield is a rock and roll god.

Springfield stood on the Tire Kingdom stage yesterday afternoon, in shades and a leather jacket. As he tossed guitar picks into the audience, he would point, as if he was guiding the pick’s journey into an adoring fan’s grip.

He nods and gestures to women in the crowd like they’re his old friends. And many of them are, Springfield has been putting out music since the early 70’s and many of the fans he gained along the way have stayed with him. Since then, the singer-songwriter has released almost 20 studio albums.

Other fans are new, as Springfield explained to SunFest in our interview with him leading up to the artist’s performance. “I played a college of like 20-something-year olds and a couple of years ago, my goddaughter was going to this college in L.A. so we did a backyard barbecue kind of thing for her,” Springfield explained.  “And all of these kids started singing ‘Jessie’s Girl,’ like verse, chorus, everything. It’s pretty wild to see.”

In fact, no fan is too young for Springfield’s charm. That was proven when 13-year-old Savannah got pulled onto the stage to sing “Don’t Talk To Strangers.”

“I remember when I was 13, that’s a big year,” Springfield said. The two danced on stage to the cheers of the crowd for him to interject, “I just realized I dance like a 13-year-old girl.” He gave Savannah a rose before she left the stage.

The rocker promoted his new album, “Rocket Science,” playing songs from it like “Down” and “Miss Mayhem.” “He has a new record?” Springfield teased. “You mean you have other songs besides ‘Jessie’s Girl?’” The album came out in February.

As promised, Springfield played his cover of Katy Perry’s “Roar,” Springfield Style. “We like some of the girl songs that are out there,” he said. “But we feel like they need to be toughened up a little.” As a new bonus, Springfield and his band later whipped out a cover of Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off,” complete with some tweaked lyrics about drinking and staying out all night.

As great as all of that was, the undoubted moment of Springfield’s set was during his performance of his 1983 tune, “Human Touch.” The singer jumped off the stage and started high-fiving and hugging the crowd while singing. Then, he started crowd surfing for what felt like ages. Springfield got so far within the thousands of audience members, you couldn’t point him out if you wanted to. When he finally wrapped up, the singer ran back on stage without missing a beat.

Springfield and his band walked off the stage, as he flashed peace signs to the crowd. But they weren’t going to leave without giving the crowd what they wanted. The group closed with hits including “Jessie’s Girl,” “I’ll Make You Happy” and “Kristina.”

Set List
Light This Party Up
I've Done Everything For You
I Get Excited 
Down
Affair Of The Heart
Roar
That One
Bop Medley
Love Is Alright Tonight
Miss Mayhem
Shake It Off
Don't Talk To Strangers
Human Touch
Love Somebody
Jessie's Girl
I'll Make You Happy
Kristina

Thursday, April 28, 2016

August full band shows



Full band shows just added to the tour schedule:

Spiedie Fest
Binghamton, NY
August 5, 2016

Sands Event Center
Bethlehem, PA
August 19, 2016

Photo by Karen Berean

Friday, April 15, 2016

Tour dates announced


This has been a good week, more tour dates have been announced:

Stripped Down show:
Kresge Auditorium
Interlochen, MI
July 27, 2016


Full band shows:
Andover Central Park
Andover, KS
Special guests: Night Ranger & The Romantics
June 18, 2016

Mandalay Bay
Las Vegas, NV
Special guests: The Romantics
July 9, 2016

Harrah's Resort So Cal
Valley Center, CA
Special guests: Loverboy & The Romantics
July 17, 2016

Calvert Marine Museum
Solomons, MD
Special guests: Night Ranger & The Romantics
July 30, 2016

Twin River Casino
Lincoln, RI
August 6, 2016

Freedom Hill Amphitheater
Sterling Heights, MI
Special guests: Night Ranger & The Romantics
August 11, 2016

Myrtle Beach Speedway
Myrtle Beach, SC
Special guests: Night Ranger & The Romantics


Thursday, April 7, 2016

On the boardwalk


Another show has been announced with Night Ranger and The Romantics joining Rick:

The Amphitheater at Coney Island Boardwalk
Brooklyn, NY
August 18, 2016

Photo by Renata Hearn

Wednesday, April 6, 2016

Stripped Down show announced


Rick continues to strip down this summer with a new "Stripped Down" show added to the tour schedule.

Evans Amphitheater at Cain Park
Cleveland Heights, OH
July 24, 2016


Photo by Darla Gerken

Tuesday, April 5, 2016

More July dates added

Fraze Pavilion
Kettering, OH
Full band show
Special guests: The Romantics and Night Ranger
July 2, 2016

Festival Park
Elgin, IL
Special guests: The Romantics & Loverboy
July 3, 2016

Greek Theater
Los Angeles, CA
Full band show
Special guests: The Romantics and Loverboy
July 16, 2016

Photo by Mike Gerken

Friday, April 1, 2016

New show dates announced



Full band shows added for July:

Montalvo Arts Center
Saratoga, CA
Special guests: The Romantics
July 12, 2016

Ottumwa Ragbrai
Ottumwa, IA
Free show
July 28, 2016

Photo by Donna Griffith

Tuesday, March 8, 2016

OH Canada!



Rick returns to the Niagara Fallsview Casino for two full band shows:

Niagara Fallsview Casino
June 9 & 10, 2016
Niagara Falls, Ontario, CA

Tickets go on sale Friday, March 11th

Photo by Charlotte Poe

Friday, February 26, 2016

Tour Dates added


Full band shows just announced:

Desert Diamond Casino
Sahuarita, AZ
March 26, 2016

Sunfest 2016
West Palm Beach, FL
April 30, 2016

Photo by Mary Miller

Monday, February 22, 2016

California...here comes Rick


Rick Springfield full band show with special guests: 38 Special and The Romantics

Thunder Valley Resort Amphitheater
Lincoln, CA
July 15, 2016

Sunday, February 21, 2016

Stripped Down shows announced


Stripped Down shows:

Shooting Star Casino
Mahnomen, MN
April 15, 2016

Crystal Grand Music Theater
Wisconsin Dells, WI
April 16, 2016

Photo by Lisa Wilcox

Monday, February 15, 2016

Rocket Science Review

Melodic Rock

Rick Springfield has never made the same album twice. Take a look back through his career, even as far back as his 1971 debut Beginnings, he has changed his sound continually along the way. There have been albums with a similar musical theme running through them, but never two records quite the same.
 
In recent years Rick has been more eclectic than ever. From the various sessions that formed the melodic introspect of Karma; to the straight up aggression and angst of Shock Denial Anger Acceptance; to the modern rock theme of the uptempo and personal Venus In Overdrive and Songs For The End Of The World albums – there’s always something new to digest.  In the same way that Karma followed the Sahara Snow compilation; Rick follows last year’s Stripped release with his brand new 18th studio album.
 
Rick continues his career renaissance with Rocket Science, an album that for me completes the trilogy of releases co-written with bassist Matt Bissonette. It really does continue the sound and style encompassed in Venus and Songs, albeit with a completely new twist. A country twist.
  
That word frightens some, but it shouldn’t. Any long time Rick fan will already be comfortable with the notion as it has appeared as a musical influence before in the 70s, again in the 80s  (What Kind Of Fool Am I) and even in the 90s with Karma (a very similar acoustic base used on several tracks). 
 
And anyone that enjoyed the utterly brilliant Songs or Venus albums will find instant familiarity in Rocket Science, as the same pop base has been used with the songwriting. Essentially those two records are modern pop albums with heavier guitars. Rocket Science is the exact same premise, just with a lighter, breezier feel and heavier emphasis on country influences.
 
It threw me at first, it really did. But after 3 or 4 listens it just sounded like Rick. Like it was something he’s been doing all along. In fact it is a joy to hear Rick and Matt’s songs over the bed of instrumentation here, which includes the banjo, pedal steel, mandolin, fiddle and violin.
 
Rocket Science features some of the most unbelievably catchy songs of Rick’s career. It’s quite simply one hook after another from start to finish. The dressing may be different, but the main course is hit songs.
 
And the production and especially the mix on this album is sensational. It’s no easy feat to balance the many layers a Rick Springfield album always offers into a listenable package, but to go and add so many new instruments and make them all audible within the songs is, frankly, astonishing. Credit there goes to Nashville pro Justin Niebank, who Rick brought in for his expertise in working with the acoustic instruments.
 
The other immediately obvious aspect of the new album is the lyrical and music positivity. In Rick’s own words, he thought it time to stop ‘pissing and moaning’, which I think is an apt description of what this album doesn’t do. It really is so damn positive and the songs really give off that ‘up’ vibe. Some of the songs on here are simply some of the catchiest, happiest songs of Rick’s career.
And awesome to see longtime associates Tim Pierce and Jeff Silverman amongst the album credits.

Track by Track:
 
Light This Party Up is exactly what it sounds like – a concert anthem that’s just begging to be played loud. The title sounds country and the song is indeed that – but one of the more hard rocking country tracks I’ve heard and the steel guitar is turned to 11. It rocks along at a terrific pace and is the album’s most obviously simplistic lyric.
 
Down on the other hand is a wonderful complex, feel good lyric that for me has the exact same impact as track 2 on both Venus (I’ll Miss That Someday) and Songs (Our Ship’s Sinking). An uptempo anthem that has a lot of instrumentation going on under the vocal (as do all tracks), with the acoustic instruments overridden by electric ones in this instance. Another Rick classic.
 
That One is one of the stronger country themed tracks here, but it also features some modern production effects and something that Rick hasn’t done, that is, change his vocal delivery. So this is basically a Karma style mid-tempo modern pop song that is utterly addictive.
The chorus is impossible not to like and the lyrics are again personal and encouraging. The twang of steel guitar becomes less noticeable and sinks in as part of Rick’s natural sound.
 
The Best Damn Thing is another wonderful lyric wrapped in a feel good uptempo pop/country/rocker with another unforgettable singalong chorus. Rick’s regular guitar sound mixes with mandolins and slide guitar seamlessly and while it’s one of the most obvious country tunes here, the fast moving tempo and catchiness is impossible to deny. It’s now one of my very favourites. Can you hear the reference to What Kind Of Fool Am I?
 
There’s always a left turn within a Rick album and there’s a few on this album. Miss Mayhem is one and the most stark. Starting with a banjo riff (yes!) over a swapy vocal, it then turns heavy with a bluesy hard driving riff and a chorus not like any other on the album. A good dose of guitar for those who might be craving such. A late-song vocal bridge is not unlike something from Sahara Snow.
 
Pay It Forward is pop perfection. Unbelievably catchy and driven by steel guitar, banjos and violins, the country themed pop rocker is brilliant. Impossible not to sing along to, this tune could be on pop or country radio alongside any modern artist. It reminds me heavily of The Hooters when they take on that Celtic sound so well.
 
Found is about as country as it gets. The acoustic based ballad is backed with every kind of Nashville instrument and overtone, with fiddle and violins at the forefront. But the vocal is so honest and pure; plus there’s another impossibly catchy hook. The song is every bit as essential as any other track here. It’s not a slow ballad by at stretch and features a full rounded chorus.
 
Crowded Solitude is another track that’s driven by country instruments and soul. More inspiring lyrics and a singalong barn dance style chorus makes for yet another very catchy track, even if it might be quite removed from what fans of a rockier Rick Springfield might wish for. For those that have liked the album so far, there’s no dip in quality here.
 
Let Me In is the re-recording of a bonus track from the last album. Another great example of how the style from Songs bleeds into Rock Science. This song is perfect for the format in play here. Rick’s vocal is warmer and richer and the added country influences make this another sure fire hit single given half the chance.
 
We talk about left turns on Rick albums all the time. All Hands On Deck is not only a left turn, it’s a complete U-turn from the middle lane on a crowded freeway.
This is simple extraordinary song and one of Rick’s fastest moving and catchiest songs ever. It is unlike anything he has ever recorded before. Starting with a slow steel guitar intro and vocal, the song explodes into this crazy Celtic stomp that reminds me of an 18th Century sea shanty. It’s The Hooters meets Captain Pugwash with a gallon of rum thrown in. Brilliant.
 
We Connect is a song that will sound much more familiar to Rick fans. This is almost free of any country instrumentation. Rather it is a darker, heavier and moodier song that sounds like it could easily have come straight from Songs For The End Of The World. It’s another very fine addition to the folder of Rick angst songs and I’m sure will be a favourite for many. Wonderful haunting lyrics too.
 
(I Wish I Has A) Concrete Heart takes things back on message with a breezy acoustic driven pop/rock song with some modern production loops and personal lyrics. The chorus bursts to life with another instantly likeable hook. It’s just another brilliant song that follows a string of other brilliant songs.
 
Earth To Angel is the perfect way to close this amazing album. A breezy pop/country song with a more rocking chorus (catchy as always) that combines the influences of this album in a feel good song that again reminds me of The Hooters.
 
Unfortunately the only bonus track of the several listed available that I can comment on is the one with the Japanese version of the album. Jessie’s Girl (2016) is nothing like what I anticipated. It’s a complete reimagining of the song, with new bridge harmonies and a completely new musical bed that brings the song into a darker, modern realm, with increased programming and a huge new hook to really invigorate this old classic. Makes me wonder what Rick could do with some of his other 80s classics. Next album perhaps?
 
And after 45 minutes (49 with the bonus track) the ride is over. It may be a hayride, but it’s a hayride with electric guitars, modern rock production, a million dollar mix and 13 of the catchiest songs you’ll hear from any one artist on one album.
 
I know what some will be thinking. If this is such a great album, surely I would be leaning towards other modern country artists to listen to. But no… It’s not the country style of this record that makes it great – it’s Rick’s lyrics, his vocal nuances and the mix of his recent style with something new. It all comes together to make a catchy as hell album whose songs would work in any style.
 
I can’t understate the brilliance of these songs. The style might not suit everyone, but I have to think that this could be the best produced album of Rick’s career. Everything is just packed in so brilliantly, with all instruments clearly audible and Rick’s vocal performance is one of a 30 year old.
 
The country influences might turn some away, but they will be the folks missing out. I hadn’t planned a perfect score, but over the last 8 weeks I haven’t stopped playing this. Just brilliant.

Saturday, February 13, 2016

TV appearances announced



Rick's upcoming TV appearances scheduled to promote the new album Rocket Science!

Live! with Kelly & Michael -  Monday,  February 15

Closing Bell - Tuesday, February 16

Today - Wednesday,  February 17 (10 - 11 am)

Meredith Vieira - Monday,  February 22

Rachael Ray - Wednesday, February 24

Moondance Jam


Full band show just announced:

Moondance Jam
Walker, MN
July 22, 2016

Photo by Renata Hearn

Tuesday, January 26, 2016

Rocket Science CD signings


Confirmed CD signings

Saturday, February 13
Grimeys
1604 8th Ave South
Nashville, TN 37203...
Event Time: 3PM
615-254-4801
http://www.grimeys.com/instores/




Sunday, February 14
The Exchange
6277 Pearl Road
Parma Heights, OH 44130
Event Time: 2PM
440-845-0828

Monday, February 15
Looney Tunes
31 Brookvale Ave
West Babylon, NY 11704
Event Time: 7PM
Wristband passes for this event are SOLD-OUT

Tuesday, January 19, 2016

"Let Me In"

Rick Springfield Returns With New Song 'Let Me In' From Upcoming Album 'Rocket Science': Exclusive Song Premiere

Rick Springfield calls his upcoming disc, Rocket Science, "probably the most positive album I've ever written." And it's not just because he expects big sales or lots of attention for it.

"I was just wanting to change my attitude," Springfield tells Billboard. "Pissing and moaning about something and dooms-daying is not gonna help anything. I've always been a big one to do that, pissing and moaning. So I wanted to have some solutions for once rather than just moaning. I've been having a better mindset lately and focused on different things. I'm always fighting the depression -- that's taught for me -- but the way I deal with that mainly is just to write, and feeling that I'm doing something creative really helps my mood."

Rick Springfield on Acting Opposite Meryl Streep in 'Ricki and the Flash' and Why He's a 'Late Bloomer'

That said, "Let Me In" -- the first song Springfield wrote for Rocket Science, which comes out Feb. 19 -- was drawn from darker circumstances in his life. "I was having issues with my primary relationship, and it came out of that," explains Springfield, who's been married to wife Barbara since 1984. "The best songs come from a moment of truth for me, and that was an issue I was having a really tough time with, so it came from that. I'm very guilty of creating conflict to get the emotions stirred up and be able to write. There's deeper stuff in conflict; That's the only time you stop and think is when things aren't going well. When things are going well you're kind of full steam ahead, and I don't really write much when I'm happy."

Billboard is exclusively premiering "Let Me In" below, as well as Springfield performing an acoustic version of the track and a behind-the-scenes video about the song.  


 
 

Fans will also notice a distinct country flavor to Rocket Science, Springfield's 18th studio album overall. It's evident in many of the song structures and melodies, as well as instrumentation that crops up throughout the album. "It's not a country album; It's a pop album, but it does have country influences that I love and have always loved," says Springfield, who co-produced Rocket Science with longtime cohort and current Elton John bassist Matt Bissonette. "I've always loved the fiddle and the lap steel, the pedal steel, I love all the banjo picking with guitars. I did write a couple songs with some country guys (including Rascal Flatts' Jay DeMarcus on the track 'Down'), but that's where pop has gone. So we thought we'd just do an album with those influences present." And Springfield also brought in Justin Niebank (Blake Shelton, Darius Rucker, Hunter Hayes, Kid Rock) to handle the mix. "They know how to put it in so the guitars are still the dominant instrument, 'cause I write everything on guitar pretty much," he explains.

 
Springfield is spending some time in his native Australia before Rocket Science's release, and the year's touring gets underway Feb. 12-13 at the Wildhorse Saloon in Nashville. Springfield recently wrapped a new independent film, Traces, after appearing in HBO's True Detective last year, and he's working on ideas for TV series as well.
The singer-songwriter-actor-author is also writing a sequel to his philosophical novel Magnificent Vibration, though he's keeping the idea of adapting that for film at arm's length right now. "It'd be a very expensive film," Springfield notes. "It's very wide-ranging. I think maybe when I finish the sequel, the two of the together might make an interesting movie. There's a lot of stuff in it that I'm interested in and I'm sure a lot of people are -- certainly the planet and God and what the fuck is it all about is a pretty big question."