The Rick Z Show

Hudson Valley's favorite son, John Hall, reminisces about his days with rock group Orleans, as well as his time as Congressman from New York. He also discusses his new solo album, Reclaiming My Time, and the new Christmas album by Orleans, New Star Shining.

Hudson Valley's favorite son, John Hall, reminisces about his days with rock group Orleans, as well as his time as Congressman from New York. He also discusses his new solo album, Reclaiming My Time, and the new Christmas album by Orleans, New Star Shining.

The Rick Z Show celebrates its 100th episode by welcoming back Anthony Formisano, Richard Rainey, and Rich Zinnanti, 3 Doo Wop aficionados, to honor the most listened to episode thus far. Listen in as they go a bit deeper into the enigmatic world of Doo Wop. 

Drummer, producer Dan D'Elia talks about recording and performing music, including his extensive work with host Rick Z. Listen in as Dan recounts these experiences, as well as his plethora of diverse bands and projects. 

Rick interviews mythic Hudson Valley songwriter Timothy Wilkie. They reminisce about their time together playing music and discuss Tim's foray into the world of art and novel writing. 

Manager, concert producer, and much more, Ray Wilson has worked with the likes of such notable legends as Michael Jackson, Madonna, Sting, and Don Mclean. He is also responsible for presenting some of New York's best concert series. Ray's humor and zeal are matched only by his sheer enthusiasm for music itself. 

Who says dentists can't rock? Dr. Bruce Milner, keyboardist for late 60's pop sensation Every Mother's Son, entertains with his singing and songs. Bruce discusses his short but memorable career in music and his long career as popular dentist in Woodstock, NY. 

Peter O'Brien has earned a reputation as one of the premier drummers in the Hudson Valley. His impeccable technique and versatility has scored him the drum set with legendary local band Orleans, as well as with the regions best jazz and funk bands.

If you think "Bermuda" Schwartz is a funny name, consider the man that bestowed it upon him, his boss, "Weird Al" Yankovic. Jon discusses his 40+ years as drummer for "Weird Al" as well as his personal collection of photos of the iconic artist recently published in his new book Black & White & Weird All Over. 

If you think "Bermuda" Schwartz is a funny name, consider the man that bestowed it upon him, his boss, "Weird Al" Yankovic. Jon discusses his 40+ years as drummer for "Weird Al" as well as his personal collection of photos of the iconic artist recently published in his new book Black & White & Weird All Over. 

Singer, songwriter, and author, Jack DePietro, discusses his long career as a musician and recording artist. His intriguing new book, Life Behind Bars, details his experiences with musical luminaries, and much more.

Singer Bethany Beardslee walks that fine line between classical and jazz, and traditional and experimental. Ms. Beardslee has performed in some of the country's most prestigious venues, singing works by such preeminent composers as Milton Babbitt and Gunther Schuller. At 95 years old, she has recently released her memoirs, I Sang the Unsingable. Rick plays a couple of her best known pieces, and chats with her about her fascinating career. 

Hudson Valley Drummer Matt Donohue sits down with Rick Z to discuss his over 3 decades of musical memories. Matt's passion and prowess have earned him a place among the area's best musicians. Currently drumming for the inventive band IS, he forges ahead into local music history.

Tom Brislin is not only a killer on the keys, but has been a member of such emblematic classic rock acts as Kansas and Yes and frontman for his own band Spiraling. His pure voice and heart rendering songs make him a favorite on The Rick Z Show.

The King Is Back! King of the jingle that is. Steve Karmen discusses the many pitfalls faced by creative people in the music business. He recounts his own experiences in the biz and lends his keen insight on the Rick Z Show.

The King Is Back! King of the jingle that is. Steve Karmen discusses the many pitfalls faced by creative people in the music business. He recounts his own experiences in the biz and lends his keen insight on the Rick Z Show.

If you want excellence, look no further. Angelo Badalamenti is a world class composer, who has worked in the medium of both film and television. In 1990, he received a Grammy for best pop instrumental performance for composing the theme to David Lynch's Twin Peaks series. Included among his other accolades is ASCAP's Henry Mancini Award and a prestigious lifetime achievement prize from the World Soundtrack Awards. His credits include scores for innovative films such as Blue Velvet, Wild at Heart, The Straight Story, and Mulholland Drive. 

Multi-faceted Michael Berkowitz is a talented drummer, band leader, conductor and much more. He has picked up sticks for the likes of such pop stars as Helen Reddy and Liza Minnelli. Michael has also worked with iconic acts like the Gene Krupa Orchestra and Nelson Riddle. Mike discusses the many aspects of his impressive career.

Multi-faceted Michael Berkowitz is a talented drummer, band leader, conductor and much more. He has picked up sticks for the likes of such pop stars as Helen Reddy and Liza Minnelli. Michael has also worked with iconic acts like the Gene Krupa Orchestra and Nelson Riddle. Mike discusses the many aspects of his impressive career.

The Rick Z Show is off the hook as its producer takes leave of his post to be the show's musical guest. Author, musician, wildlife expert, and former star of his own national TV series. Multifaceted Rusty Johnson has more in his arsenal than you would expect. He recounts his surprising career then picks up a guitar and jams. No sidekick, he is a force of his own and rocks The Rick Z Show.

Former Hudson Valley musician Dan Flanagan joins forces with fellow songwriter Jacob Harrison together they are Stillfire Bellows.  Their new EP Prophets and Postcards is a unique blend of acoustic punk and genuine harmonic vocals. 

If while just passing through you happen to hear random jags of solo music wafting overhead you may be in the presence of a Hudson Valley street musician. Independent, self-contained, and often misunderstood, this rare breed is as elusive as the Hudson Valley black bear. Street musician Scott Tumblety steps off the streets of Rhinebeck New York to toot his own horn on the Rick Z Show.

Drummer Tim Hermann recalls his many musical experiences from studying with preeminent drummer Sonny Igoe to his stint with the Sammy Kaye Orchestra.  Tim ranks with some of the areas best drummers.

Renowned rock and roll drummer Liberty DeVitto joins Rick for a discussion about his incredible career from his many years with legendary rock icon Billy Joel through authoring his exciting new book Liberty, Life, Billy, and the Pursuit of Happiness. Soulful, down to earth, and absolutely Rocking he is Liberty DeVitto and he's on the Rick Z Show.

Renowned rock and roll drummer Liberty DeVitto joins Rick for a discussion about his incredible career from his many years with legendary rock icon Billy Joel through authoring his exciting new book Liberty, Life, Billy and the Pursuit of Happiness. Soulful, down to earth, and absolutely Rocking he is Liberty DeVitto and he's on the Rick Z Show.

If you combine the sizable talents of Donna Lewis and Pamela Sue Mann then mix in a little David Baron magic then you've got QueenTown.  Lewis and Mann illuminate the Rick Z Show with there light-hearted banter and loving rapport. If you think that sounds fun wait till you hear the intriguing songs and sounds on their debut EP Post Apocalyptic Lullaby.  

Donna Lewis on the Rick Z Show. Think you know Donna Lewis?  Think again.  With one of the biggest hits of the last 25 years "I Love You Always Forever" it would be easy to misperceive Donna as merely a Pop Princess, but there is so much more to this multidimensional artist.  Penning nearly half a dozen diverse albums and side projects.  This angelic voiced singer influenced the likes of Taylor Swift though she was born in Cartiff, Wales.  She is the Hudson Valley's own Donna Lewis.

Donna Lewis on the Rick Z Show. Think you know Donna Lewis?  Think again.  With one of the biggest hits of the last 25 years "I Love You Always Forever" it would be easy to misperceive Donna as merely a Pop Princess, but there is so much more to this multidimensional artist.  Penning nearly half a dozen diverse albums and side projects.  This angelic voiced singer influenced the likes of Taylor Swift though she was born in Cartiff, Wales.  She is the Hudson Valley's own Donna Lewis.

Veritable guitar magician Gerry Leonard weaves his magic on The Rick Z Show. With stints a musical director of both David Bowie and Susan Vega's bands, Gerry Leonard discusses his musical development in Dublin through his successful collaborations with notable artists. His original work with Spooky Ghost, his unique sound, and ancillary skills as writer and producer, Gerry is a valuable asset to the Hudson Valley music scene and beyond.

Veritable guitar magician Gerry Leonard weaves his magic on The Rick Z Show. With stints as musical director of both David Bowie and Suzane Vega's bands, Gerry Leonard discusses his musical development in Dublin through his successful collaborations with notable artists. His original work with Spooky Ghost, his unique sound, and ancillary skills as writer and producer, Gerry is a valuable asset to the Hudson Valley music scene and beyond.

Passionate, evocative, she is Pamela Sue Mann and she's on the Rick Z Show.  Pamela weaves her dark poetry and haunting vocals through all of her work.  Whether on display in her collaborative effort Queentown or on her self-produced release Break.  She is one of the Hudson Valley's most daring artists.

Passionate, evocative, she is Pamela Sue Mann and she's on the Rick Z Show.  Pamela weaves her dark poetry and haunting vocals through all of her work.  Whether on display in her collaborative effort Queentown or on her self-produced release Break.  She is one of the Hudson Valley's most daring artists.

Part 2 - From one of the first rock and rollers on Dick Clark's American Bandstand to iconic jingle writer of such enduring melodies as When you say Bud you've said it all, Nationwide is on your side, and I Love New York.  It's said that Steve Karmen's melodies have been heard more than Elton John's.  His reputation as King of the Jingle is matched only by his wit and soul.  Listen and learn to a man whose journey spans a half-century of popular culture. 

From one of the first rock and rollers on Dick Clark's American Bandstand to iconic jingle writer of such enduring melodies as When you say Bud you've said it all, Nationwide is on your side, and I Love New York.  It's said that Steve Karmen's melodies have been heard more than Elton John's.  His reputation as King of the Jingle is matched only by his wit and soul.  Listen and learn to a man whose journey spans a half-century of popular culture. 

In the sober light of day, Josh Cirilo is thoughtful, well mannered, and laid back.  But under the cover of night, he expands to become the infamous Terruhwrist.  A thought-provoking and sometimes edgy Hip Hop sensation. And he lays down his rap on The Rick Z Show.

Did you ever wonder why big named artists sound so good?  It's because of guys like Klyde Jones and he is on The Rick Z Show.  Klyde's ample talent is on display with the likes of Hall and Oats and Average White Band. His multi-faceted career is as remarkable as his humble demeanor.  A must listen. 

Brewmaster Tommy Keegan calls The Rick Z Show.  Coming back to life as businesses slowly reopen, Keegan Ales does it right.  Surely one of the Hudson Valley's hippiest musical venues Keegan Ales is a friend to local and regional music. And oh yeah you can also enjoy one of Keegan Ales many Inimitable beers. Cheers!

As phase 2 of our reopening begins the Hudson Valley music scene struggles to its feet. From musicians to clubs to studios and music schools Rick welcomes 5 distinguished guests via ZOOM to tell their stories.

Musician and songwriter Will Hoppey drops a line to The Rick Z Show.  With his extensive catalog of classic rock favorites to his 3 original albums, Will's got something for everyone.  

Ronnie Zito dials up the Rick Z Show. Emblematic session drummer Ronnie Zito recounts his remarkable career including stints with greats like Woody Herman, Bobby Darin, Frankie Valli, and much more.  Ronnie helped to develop the backdrop of our musical memories from Barry Manilow's Copacabana to Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and the Charlie Brown theme.

Ronnie Zito dials up the Rick Z Show. Emblematic session drummer Ronnie Zito recounts his remarkable career including stints with greats like Woody Herman, Bobby Darin, Frankie Valli, and much more.  Ronnie helped to develop the backdrop of our musical memories from Barry Manilow's Copacabana to Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and the Charlie Brown theme.

Personally hand-picked from among the first 60 episodes, Rick and Rusty revisit nearly a dozen live recordings by a diverse group of the show's guests.  From Yacht Rock to Hick Hop and a few stops in between. Greatest Live Hits of the Rick Z Show has something for everyone.

Personally hand-picked from among the first 60 episodes, Rick and Rusty revisit nearly a dozen recordings by a diverse group of the show's guests.  From Yacht Rock to Hick Hop and a few stops in between. Greatest Hits of the Rick Z Show has something for everyone.

Among the best voices of the Hudson Valley Julie Parisi Kirby speaks to Rick Z about her music.  From her work with group Princes of Serendip to her solo effort In Her Dream you will be captivated by the warmth and versatility of her angelic voice. 

Once again Rick Z finds himself the subject of his own show. This time Rick's interviewed by friend and long time collaborator Dan D'Elia.

Songwriter Maggie Rothwell interviews Rick Z on the Rick Z Show. Taking a breather from interviewing Hudson Valley Musicians and songwriters, Rick Z finds himself the subject of his own show.

Prolific singer-songwriter JD Coy raps with Rick on The Rick Z Show. With a pervasive spirituality and a delivery, all his own JD Coy's music will inspire and groove you.  His latest album Testament is no exception. JD has played with members of NRBQ and he has made fans of local legends such a Levon Helm and so much more.

Prolific singer-songwriter JD Coy raps with Rick on The Rick Z Show. With a pervasive spirituality and a delivery, all his own JD Coy's music will inspire and groove you.  His latest album Testament is no exception. JD has played with members of NRBQ and he has made fans of local legends such a Levon Helm and so much more.

Part 2 - Willy Amrod stops in on the Rick Z Show. Willy's enigmatic charm and contagious passion come across in spades in this one of a kind interview. Whether he is singing for the common man or chillin with the JB Horns, Willy Amrod's soulful brand of music will make your big toe shoot right up into your boot.

Willy Amrod stops in on the Rick Z Show. Willy's enigmatic charm and contagious passion come across in spades in this one of a kind interview. Whether he is singing for the common man or chillin with the JB Horns, Willy Amrod's soulful brand of music will make your big toe shoot right up into your boot.

Part 2 - Vito Petroccitto rocks The Rick Z Show.  Vito is simply one of the top guitarists of the Hudson Valley.  He is known for his work in such bands as Four Guys in Disguise and The Difference amongst others. He talks with passion about his music and the musicians who have inspired him. The interview is peppered with Vito's original songs which feature is outstanding gifts on guitar.