THE TOP with Richie Phillips

A SWEET discussion with "Sweet Baby James" Tribute artist Bill GREISE.  He resides in Nashville but has become nationally recognized as a top James Taylor tribute artist.  Copyright restrictions prevent me from playing any of the songs here, but you can see and hear samples below.   He is appearing here in the Capital Region of Upstate NY at the Cohoes Music Hall on April 5th   Check here for tix!   Video: https://youtu.be/Q0MwK8rx0qY Audience Reviews: https://sweetbabyjamesofficial.com/reviews [Booking: https://sweetbabyjamesofficial.com/book]   Also included in the podcast is a song I wrote rhyming all of the pill commercials you see on TV .    PILLSONG ©2024 Richie Phillips.  All Rights Reserved   Want me to write a musical tribute for someone's  special occasion?  Go to my website and order a "Pick-Me-Up Parody"    #toptalentrichie #tributeartistsalbanyny#sweetbabyjames #jamestaylortribute #jamestaylor #sbj #jt #walkingman #billgriese #tributeshows #tribute #tributeshow #cohoesny #cohoesmusichall #albany #albanyny #albanyevents 

It doesn't take brain surgery to figure out who she's related to!  Correct! She is the daughter country legends George Jones and Tammy Wynette.  She was also show consultant on the heart wrenching  bio pic “George and Tammy” .   Georgette is appearing in Glens Falls, New York at the wood theater for an “Up Close  and Personal “ Performance on Sunday, October 29 at 3 PM.  Tickets are still available at this writing at www.woodtheater.org.  we talk about her parents' and her music, the making of the bio pic and much more.. She also speaks her mind and minces no words about how country music has become almost unrecognizable……at the conclusion I have included a slightly snarky musical commentary I wrote about “bro country” song lyrics that I penned one day on while on the air…. ENJOY!   MY WEBSITE.  WWW.HIRERICHIE.COM EMAIL Richie1077@gmail.com

Think you or somebody you know has an amazing talent?  The "IT" factor?  Well here's your chance to shine.  INTERNATIONAL TALENT SHOWCASE is here in ALBANY ON TUES OCTOBER 17TH AT THE DESMOND HOTEL IN ALBANY!  Founder SHARON MCCARTHY is my guest, and will give you all the information in case you are wondering what they are looking for.  You can be 4 years old, and you can be 80ish  They take anyone in between!    Take a listen!  I also am debuting a new song that rhymes all the annoying pill commercials you see on TV.  It's at the end of the episode. My website btw is www.hirerichie.com for all your musical needs for your next event  (Need a song written for that special someone?  I can do that!  Samples on my site ... 

Fun, informative interview with the incredibly TALENTED  NANCY HAYS - Actor, "Come Dance With Me" singer-songwriter, international line dance hitmaker and much much more.  Ready to appear as of this writing at the the Wood Theatre in Glens Falls for an incredible tribute (with her daughter Mary Hefferman) to Judy Garland and Lisa Minelli's 1964 London Palladium show.  That is happening on 10/22.  The evening before she is at  Glens Falls Stomp,  Temple Beth El Marion Ave, Glens Falls with a 7PM  Line Dance Show!  To see clips of this upcoming show go to www.judylizatribute.com Or go to Soundcloud.com under Nancy Hays and look for Dean Richards interview to hear more of her singing.    Looking for entertainment for your next meeting or private event?  Piano bar sing-a-long nites, song parody show ( I can write you a custom song for that special someone) and more at. www.hirerichie.com     

Fascinating talk with the man who's the BACKBEAT of this EMMY AWARD-WINNING  Beatle tribute band- THE FAB FOUR. He is multi-instrumentalist Erik Fidel.   We talk influences, how he prepares (musically and visually) for the gigs,  how he learned to play a right handed kit left handed (Like the master does), and much much more.  If you've never seen them live, you are missing a masterful recreation of the greatest rock group in history..  The Fab Four at the time of this writing scheduled to play here in Albany NY at THE EGG. There may still be tix... Here's the link events    Get more info about this FAB group at www.thefabfour.com Need music (live and/or recorded) for your next function?  How bout a personalized song written just for that special someone?   Check out  www.hirerichie.com

Great, fun conversation with an icon from perhaps the most prolific and productive era in country music..the 90's…singer songwriter Billy Dean . Billy Dean is a multi award-winning country, singer songwriter. We delve into his career, his new projects, and most importantly..why everyone in his family is either named Billy or Dean or any combination!    Www.Billydean.com for more info My website to book a gig  and hear current and past parodies www.rhyminrichie.com    

REPEAT EPISODE -  THIS EPISODE ORIGINALLY AIRED SEVERAL YEARS AGO, BUT WAS ERASED ACCIDENTALLY.  I AM REPOSTING IT This incredibly talented high school student not only is a skilled pianist, but also composes and ARRANGES as well.  Her mother, Anne, entered her into a national talent contest on PBS organized by famed child prodigy ETHAN BORTNICK. And yes...SHE'S A FINALIST!!!  After listening to this interview, I'm sure you're going to want to cast your vote to “take her to THE TOP” so she can perform in Los Angeles with Ethan!  There's some stiff competition, so please head on over to www.celebtationofmusic.com  Go to CONTESTANTS and head to the TROY page.  You will see her name, photo, and sample of her performance on a recent local PBS telecast.  Best of luck, Caroline!                          SHAMELESS PLUG For all your private party, wedding and conference entertainment needs, please go to www.hirerichie.com

ENCORE EPISODE... Originally aired in 2019 but was accidentally erased.   A fun 45 minute chat with old friend and TOP TALENT- musician, songwriter, and arranger EDDIE KILLGALLON. We talk music, songwriting, how he made the move from the Albany area to Nashville way back when, how “timing and preparation” helped, how George Strait propelled a song he co-wrote to the number one spot on the Country charts, his role with EDDIE MONTGOMERY OF MONTGOMERY GENTRY in light of the terrible tragedy claiming the life of Troy Gentry, and tons more. He also gave me the EXCLUSIVE on a brand new song that I'm going to play a portion of. Not to be missed. Very very timely with a vitally important message ..

Yes..that happened… An unbelievable opportunity to speak with a country music icon…Multi-Award winning singer and actor Randy Travis and his amazing wife Mary who has become, due to his unfortunate stroke several years ago, , his defacto spokesperson..and what an amazing job she does…     They make it work, and with great humor besides.    There is a backstory to getting this chance to chat with them, and it's briefly explained at the beginning.   To give you an idea….I and several others had the once in a lifetime opportunity to sing his own hits right there with him on the stage!  I will never forget that, and will never forget this super special episode… they were so down to earth that by the end of my working with them, I wanted to invite them for dinner!  Lol SPECIAL THANKS TO THE MASTERMIND OF THE SHOWS THAT I AND  OTHERS WERE INVOLVED WITH…KEVIN RICHARDS of KEVIN RICHARDS PRODUCTIONS. He is also on this episode along with coordinator Cheryl Howe who did so much behind the scenes work with these shows at the Charles R Woods Theatre in Glens Falls and the Colonial Theatre in Laconia NH..      Absent here was Mark Petrie who also did amazing work on these gigs!

Part 1 of a 2 Part Podcast on our experiences performing in association with the UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL RANDY TRAVIS SHOW here in Glens Falls NY and Laconia New Hampshire-8/26-27,2023 - part of Kevin Richards Productions.  Mark and I were "warm up acts" and the duo of Martin and Kelly are best described as "Co- Headliners" along with the legend himself!  More infö at MartinandKellymusic.com and same on socials.  Mark Pierre on FB  Let me write and record a special song for your special someone !  PICK-ME-UP PARODY INFO AT                             www.hirerichie.com                          RhyminRichie on Socials 

In this episode I pay tribute to a TOP TALENTed Tribute Artist -Pennsylvania native Doug Delescavage - of the PHILADELPHIA FREEDOM TRIBUTE BAND .  I happened to catch their act here in July 2023 at the Mohawk Harbor, part of the River Casino complex in Schenectady NY.  Don't miss them if they come your way in the future!  Wow!  Here we discuss his impressive training, he talks about his day  job --, I try (and fail miserably) to stump him with  Elton Trivia questions, and  you even get a free mini piano lesson here for all you folks just starting out .   His website if you'd like to hear clips and see his stage setup is www.philadelphiafreedomtribute.com.

A little sidestep from my normal musical topics--I wanted to explore talent in another medium- PHOTOGRAPHY.  I happened to see this man's work on Facebook where he expertly colorizes old photographs from downtown Troy way back when. A must see!  John Bulmer is my guest.  We talk tips, tricks, artificial intelligence, the death of the digital camera (or maybe not) and other topics .    Check out JohnBulmerPhotography on Facebook to see his incredible work.   At the end of this, I am debuting a song where I dip my toe into the world of A.I. myself.  I had Chat CPT write the lyrics to a song explaining" how much I love playing my piano". I put music to it and produced it with harmonies etc just for "you know whats and giggles".  It's toward the end of the episode.   Hey--speaking of that--looking for a piano?  Digital? Acoustic? Hybrid?.  I know just the place..... HILTON PIANO CENTER, COLONIE CENTER ALBANY.    Check out his website at www.hiltonpianocenter.com  or Bob@hiltonpianocenter.com .

We continue with my series of Top Talented Tribute Artists.  This time Scott Townshend, aka THIRSTY BURLINGTON as Cher!!!  We discuss not only the process of transforming into this icon onstage, but also the trials and tribulations of growing up, gender identity, and we also should mention that Thirsty has a movie---aptly entitled THIRSTY - available on Tubi TV, Hulu and other services.  I happened to see it myself and it is powerful to say the least.     Thirsty is appearing at the Charles Woods Theatre in Glens Falls on 4/15/23.   I hear there are a handful of tix left!!! Call the box office or go to Kevin Richards.com for this and all his upcoming shows - including Randy Travis on 8/26...I will be one of the opening acts!!  Here is a clip if you would like to see a"Cher"  performance    https://youtu.be/guEC4fDPLXE                                     SHAMELESS SELF PROMOTION  Planning a wedding, private party, retirement party, anniversary party, corporate event?  Live and recorded music is available from yours truly.   SPECIAL OFFER!  BOOK A 3 OR 4 HOUR PARTY BETWEEN NOW AND SEPTEMBER FIRST 2023--and I will  write and perform a song parody about that special someone at your event.  You also get a recorded copy of the song.  (THE PARTY CAN BE ANYTIME, BUT YOU HAVE TO BOOK IT BETWEN NOW AND SEPTEMBER)   For testimonials and other information -  www.hirerichie.com - all my contact info is on there.   Enjoy the podcast!!    

Another in my series of Tribute Acts episodes.  This time we feature two TOP TALENTS.. Jenna Sue and Bill McGrath, two Albany area musicians taking on the persona of the great Dolly Parton and Johnny Cash for their final performance of their TRIBUTE SHOW  SAT. APRIL 8 at the LITTLE VEGAS WEDDING CHAPEL AND THEATRE in ROTTERDAM NY.   Call 518-419-1334 for reservations.   FYI.. I've also done Billy Joel and Joni Mitchell Tribute Act interviews.  Links below.. https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-phk69-11e9e80 https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-sp4mm-11e435e   HIRE ME TO PLAY KEYBOARDS OR DJ YOUR NEXT WEDDING, RETIREMENT, ANNIVERSARY, CORPORATE EVENT ,OR BIRTHDAY PARTY , MENTION THIS PODCAST, AND I WILL WRITE A PERSONALIZED “PICK ME UP PARODY” EITHER PRE RECORDED OR PERFORMED LIVE.  ($199.00 value!)   www.hirerichie.com/contact to get more info    

"Why did you climb that mountain? Because it was there". You've heard the saying.  Well, this was a real stretch on my part.  To try to put music to someone else's lyrics.  Especially if it's a computer's!  This was very bizarre, but I would love you to listen.  Plus a discussion (with myself) over the pros and cons of this new transformational technology.  Try ChatGPT for yourself.    Right now it's free..              chat.openai.com                           NEW SPONSOR!   Want me to write you a personalized song?      It's called the PICK-ME-UP PARODY   Great for retirement parties, employee recognition nites, anniversaries, birthdays and more.           INFO AT   www.hirerichie.com        

This was a special thrill and honor to have this gentleman on here.  You know him from the number one country hits "I Don't Have To Be Me Til Monday", and "Sunshine" plus many others.  Time to catch up with this TOP TALENT to find out what he's doing down in Mississippi - you may be surprised to learn that he now is the author of the Mississippi state song- plus lots of other cool goings-on.   His newest album is MISSISSIPPI REUNION, but there are many others to choose from.  He hosts a huge podcast called "IN A MISSISSIPPI MINUTE" which is also repeated on talk radio shows throughout his state (in fact, he asked ME to be a guest on his!   But I digress.  Hope you enjoy this one... I certainly did. www.steveazar.com for more on this TOP TALENT  My website btw is www.hirerichie.com.   Thanks for listening, and thanks for the questions that were submitted! 

Is it possible that there is a choir group that you can join with no experience and no need to even audition? Yes! It's called ROCK VOICES! Plus you get to sing awesome music… Nate Altimari is my TOP TALENTED guest-Director of the Capital Region chapter.   This is such a great community service. I think you'll enjoy the conversation.. If you'd like more information about the group.. Nate@rockvoices.com   BTW.. At the end of this podcast I also include a little ditty that was written  20 years ago… It's called Dog Shampoo…TRUE STORY! And I did this live on the air as part of my crazy job on WGNA ALBANY as part of the SEAN AND RICHIE show. Just a little bit of nostalgia…. My website btw is http://www.hirerichie.com. There's old show photos, shots with some of the artists I had the pleasure of meeting and services I can provide for your next event …plus testimonials……   See ya next time…

Mark Pierre has always had at least one foot firmly planted in the country music genre for all the years I've known him (we used to be neighbors!) . Successful Investment adviser by day/ country singer and songwriter by nite!  He has played for countless audiences in our area here in Upstate NY.    Mark has been chosen by show producer Kevin Richards, along with talented singer Jenna Sue and yours truly to perform at the "UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL RANDY TRAVIS SHOW" here at the Charles Woods Theatre in Glens Falls on 9/11/22. We are performing Randy's hits right in front of the man himself, as he is unable to for medical reasons.   You are probably listening to this after the fact, but I wanted to have a talk with him as I have already done with Jenna and Kevin. (those episodes are right below this one) .   We talk Randy, music in general, and a very interesting story how he actually pounded the pavement himself in Nashville and got VERY CLOSE to having one of his songs released.!

Jenna Sue is one of the artists, along with Mark Pierre and yours truly performing at a show we are doing honoring the great Randy Travis here in Glens Falls New York on 9/11. This was recorded right after a practice for our version of “I Told You So”…   

My talk with Capital Region country radio legend KEVIN RICHARDS and his new venture …an UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL concert with RANDY TRAVIS and other famous 80's and 90's country artists to be named.  I also have an exciting role in this show… playing and  his hits right in front of him!   Gulp….

Not often do I get to interview an INTERVIEWER,EMMY AWARD-WINNING newscaster, journalist and author JOHN GRAY.   John is a veteran news anchor here in Albany NY on NEWS 10 ABC. When he's not covering the pressing events of the day, he's burning the midnite oil writing newspaper columns and books!  His Book CHASING CHRISTMAS in fact has been picked up to become a made for TV movie in fact.   All his books are available on Amazon.   And in his spare time (lol) he does charity work and works with his wife Courtney working with organizations to rescue (and sometimes adopt as their own) stray animals.  Both are my guests actually on the podcast.  (I also surprised him with a song rhyming his resume--) Please enjoy this episode!    https://www.news10.com/watch-live-news   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=john+gray+chasing&crid=2OJXU1MEXT7MD&sprefix=john+gray+chasing+%2Caps%2C91&ref=nb_sb_noss_2    

Interesting discussion with another traveling tribute troubadour…His name is JOHN COZOLINO, and he fronts a BILLY JOEL tribute band called THE RIVER OF DREAMS TRIBUTE SHOW.  He is coming to our Capital Region area on April 1st, 2022.  You most certainly will be hearing this later…Big shoes to fill..or to pay tribute to.. to say the least. What is his background? How did he learn all of those incredible piano riffs?  And more importantly, does he have the same amount of motorcycles?   (Joke). Copyright restrictions prevent me from playing any clips, but you can get his schedule and hear them on YouTube or at https://www.riverofdreamstribute.com › ...SHOWS | River of Dreams Billy Joel Tribute        

Talk about a PROJECT!  How would you like to be in charge of recreating the iconic sound of  superstar singer/songwriter Joni Mitchell?  Well , Singer, Songwriter KATIE PEARLMAN took on the challenge and the results are pretty darn impressive.  the JONI PROJECT is coming to Cohoes Music Hall here in the Albany area on April 2nd, and if you are getting to this after the fact, she will also be at Daryl's House in Pawling, NY, the Great South Bay Festival in Patchogue NY and other gigs!   On facebook thejoniproject More info at Katiepearlman.com .  You can hear examples of THE JONI PROJECT  work here https://youtu.be/OAb09qAwubM and Katie's own albums as well as her music from her duo THE BLESSED UNREST  are available on Apple Music, Spotify and other streaming services.   My website?  Glad you asked!  www.rhyminrichie.com. Parodies, testimonials and gig info for weddings and private parties…

This is my talk with L.I. husband and wife team Barbara and Ken Oranskywho pooled their TOP TALENTS and started their own INTERNET RADIO STATION-  called NY TALENT MEDIA.  Wow!  What a task to take on....   You have to give them credit!  They actually have 4 different genres that you can listen to!  We find out how they did all this, what their mission is, and how YOU as an independent struggling musician can FINALLY get your music heard in a format that really supports talent looking to get valuable exposure!   (I also threw in a little musical commentary at the end on a subject that I'm sure bugs you as much as Barbara, Ken and I --ANNOYING TELEMARKETER CALLS !    Their website is www.nytalentmedia.com to learn how you can submit your music . Mine is www.rhyminrichie.com     ENJOY, and please leave me a comment and subscribe!!  I appreciate it!!!   

Stop what you are doing!  Would you like to hear a piano virtuoso? What if I told you he was only going into the 9th grade as of this writing?  His name is PAUL BRAULT, and in my endless quest to find and raise awareness of talent young and old either living or coming to Albany, NY's Capital Region, well- I happened to be in the right place at the right time - a piano store!  It was in www.hiltonpianocenter.com where I heard this amazing talent do his thing..  I won't blab on here - details are in this episode.   He also has a YouTube channel if you want to hear more.   Thanks to his dad, Bernard for bringing him in!  My first impression is that you could tell by meeting him that he (and I'm sure his mom and the rest of the family)  are REALLY in Paul's corner musically which is so great to see.  OK - on with this episode. And if you want to see an entire 18 minute performance, check out his Facebook Live show that he did from this piano store... https://www.facebook.com/1352726092/videos/2878143842437136/   Do you have someone with incredible talent?  Send me something! He/she/they could be the next guest! richie1077@gmail.com.  or like me on FaceBook @richiephillips                                              @rhyminrichie on Instagram and Twitter

This was a particular thrill for me, having been interviewed on Bob Cudmore's hugely successful nite time radio show back in the early 80's on AM powerhouse, WGY radio in Schenectady, NY. (there's audio to prove it, as you will discover by listening.)  So I figured -what better way to bring full closure, and shake things up in my gastrointestinal tract at the same time than to nervously attempt to interview the master!   Bob is a legendary columnist, author and broadcaster-turned-podcaster.. His interesting show, the HISTORIANS can be found at www.bobcudmore.com or on SOUNDCLOUD.com.     If you are a radio groupie as I am and remember hearing him back then, you will enjoy this talk.  We discuss radio, some of his famous guests, his beginnings, college days and much more .      My website BTW is www.hirerichie.com   I'm on Facebook @richiephillips  Join my FB LIVE PIANO BARFLIES and it will let you know when the next live piano bar nite will take place.  I play your favs, and also include some home made parody songs too...  (I wish my mom were here to hear this - she loved listening to Bob and nite time radio shows)  

We continue the conversation and former cast members of the Sean and Richie morning show pop in to reminisce. The morning show (mullti-award winning, I might add) was on WGNA radio in Albany NY from 1999-2016.    Please refer to part one's show notes for more detail.       

This episode is very very different in SO many ways.  For one, it's become a 2 parter, because once we got going there was no stopping. For the uninitiated, Sean was my partner for 17 years on radio station WGNA in Albany, NY, between 1999 and 2016.  We were the SEAN AND RICHIE SHOW, and  pretty much a #1 rated morning show for all that time -even winning a national CMA award!  Sean was in the "big chair", and I was cohost, sidekick, or however you want to categorize it.   But we had a big ensemble cast of characters along the way (back in radio's heyday when the business could afford such a thing), so my idea was to interview Sean and have these folks pop in as surprise guests.   If I listed all the things that went wrong here, your eyes would start to bleed from strain, so I will spare you.  But through the magic of editing, I think I got it under control.   Here is part 1 - ENJOY! (which you DEFINITELY will if you were a listener, and I hope my explanations throughout are enough for  if you were not... )    

A quote from Apple Music best describes my next podcast guest "Playing modern country music with an undercurrent of rock and roll energy and a commitment to entertaining the crowd"   His talent and business savvy has really propelled him as a singer songwriter in Nashville.  He's written a number one hit for Randy Houser, co-written songs for Hootie and the Blowfish and others, and has several smash hits of his own - including the current hit. "Try Saying Goodbye",received an ASCAP Songwriting Award (no small accomplishment) and his song "Tonite Tonite" was the theme for NBC's Thurs Nite Football!     I had the privilege of meeting him back in the days during my co-hosting duties on the SEAN AND RICHIE SHOW on WGNA radio here in Albany NY .  He let me accompany him on piano live on the air, and it's one of my best memories.   I was very lucky to snag him for this podcast during the downtime he's experiencing along with the rest of us.      What keeps him busy?  What was it like playing in those bars in Nashville waiting to be discovered?  Who threw $100 in his tip cup one nite not knowing that it was a big country star who did it?  How did he end up being represented by Reba's management company?   These and more cool stories on this episode of TOP TALENT.     His website is www.johnkingcountry.com.  His music is available on all streaming platforms and through his website .  He's also on Facebook and Instagram at John King         Want to be part of a FACEBOOK LIVE PIANO BAR? Songs, parodies, trivia and more?  Join my group--- RICHIE'S FB LIVE PIANO BARFLIES.... Will keep you posted on the next one!!     My website is www.hirerichie.com     I'm on Facebook @richiephillips and @rhyminrichiephillips     I'm on Twitter @rhyminrichie    

I absolutely LOVE having her on. Amazing talent--a super nice, humble and appreciative person.  We're lucky to have her here in the Capital Region of Upstate New York (although with her talent, she might not be here for too long! )   We talk music, the challenges of the business, and she debuts a new song that is DYNAMITE, and really personal - titled "18".  It's available on all the streaming platforms and she also has a lyric video on YouTube -- link here https://youtu.be/l7tpFn9WLWc We also surprised her with her number one fan....  I think you'll really enjoy this one...  Thanks to her manager Adrian for helping me set this all up..  My Facebook page is @richiephillips My email is Richie1077@gmail.com - if you would like to be on my mailing list to remind you of future podcasts, please shoot me yours!   

“SHIRT MEETS MASK- IT’S A SHMASK!”. Any questions?  That says it all.  A mask connected  to the shirt so your kids (or you)  don’t forget it or lose it!  BRILLIANT!    I happened to see the ad for this on Facebook and thought it was GENIUS.  And no, it doesn’t fit my original podcast idea of featuring Albany area musical talent....but I wanted to get this out there in these terrible times. Hey— talent is talent, no matter what the area of expertise.    I contacted owner and mother of 3,  KARRINE NISSIM , and we had a great chat about her inspiration (uh..3 kids...what do you  think?..DUH!)  They are also available for adults to order.   To order...www.shmask.com    

This was the audio from my first video podcast with a great, talented group of guys from the ELECTRIC CITY CHOROUS in Schenectady, NY.   Of course this was recorded during the ongoing pandemic, so there is no way to get them to harmonize in sync during a Zoom call, which was disconcerting, but we had a great conversation nonetheless.    How do you keep a chorous going when they're all disconnected like this?  We also get into the history of the group, their techniques, and at the end they tell you how you can get involved if by chance you would like to join.   Their website is http://www.electriccitychorous.net and they are @electriccitychorous on Facebook  My website, btw is http://www.hirerichie.com   I am @richiephillips on Facebook  This podcast is done on my own time and on my own dime.  If you would like to sponsor it, I would definitely welcome any help.  Please feel free to email me at Richie1077@gmail.com for details.      

“With patience, persistence, passion, prayer and POSITIVITY, you can  achieve ANYTHING” (including hiking 46 area mountains!). Yep, she did that too!That’s Paula Fidalgo’s mantra!   So If you’re in a “funk” lately-be it from the result of the pandemic or anything else in your life right now..take a listen to this episode.  It runs a little long, but I kept it all in so you can hear her enthusiasm toward life.  Hopefully it will rub off.  You too might end up climbing 46 high peaks.  For more info, plus to view her own interviews, Pauls is  on Facebook and YouTube  @positivitywithpaula.     My contact info: richie1077@gmail.com www.hirerichie.com To hear latest song parodies...      @richiephillips on Facebook and YouTube     

A fun 45 minute chat with old friend and TOP TALENT- musician, songwriter, and arranger EDDIE KILLGALLON.  We talk music, songwriting, how he made the move from the Albany area to Nashville way back when,  how “timing and preparation” helped, how George Strait propelled a song he co-wrote to the number one spot on the Country charts, his role with EDDIE MONTGOMERY OF MONTGOMERY GENTRY in light of the terrible tragedy claiming the life of Troy Gentry, and tons more.     He also gave me the EXCLUSIVE on a brand new song that I’m going to play a portion of.  Not to be missed.  Very very timely with a vitally  important message ..

His name is Joe Ventura - Venue owner, investment counselor, musician, morning show host - even ACTOR!!  Actual name of his interesting venue? -  EDEN ADVISORY SERVICES LLC AND CAFE.  Yes- it's the business world's definition of a reverse  mullet-- his business is "Party in the FRONT" (his cafe) and" Business in the BACK" -where he services clients with investment counseling..  Fascinating idea, wouldn't you say?     We unpack how this idea originated, and delve into many other topics, including how he has handled the pandemic and inventive ways to keep his talent showcase going!       The Eden Cafe is located at 269 Osborne Rd, in Loudonville    Website: http://www. edenasc.com    You can catch his morning broadcast weekdays at 7:45 am on his Eden Cafe  or Joe Ventura facebook page         You can visit MY Facebook page @richiephillips to hear latest song parodies and upcoming piano performances    My website is http://www.hirerichie.com    Interested in having a song written for your special event?  I can do that and email it to you to brighten someone's day. email me for info   Richie1077@gmail.com          

In this one, we gather up several very talented educators to discuss changes to the teaching profession and survival strategies in the era of Covid-19.  We have two teachers from Albany's Capital Region - Jamie Pink and Tracy Trainor, a local guidance counselor, Lexie Phillips, and educator from Brooklyn, NY, and my niece, Jessica Lorenz.  There is also a little warning for all teachers put to music at the top of the episode  from yours truly...  Some of the discussions:   Recess- Will that go away?  How about the lunchroom?  Assembly programs?  Teaching styles - how will it change when you are instructing kids on Zoom vs face to face?  This and much more..   Also , if you go to my Facebook page @richiephillips - I have some clips of songs written by Jamie and Tracy's students in Jefferson Elementary and Menands School,   The third clip is from Lexie Phillips' school -Carroll Hill in Troy during my "Reading, Writing and Rhyming" songwriting program - something I did for over 20 years during my "stint" as a morning radio cohost.    Enjoy! 

For those who are still hesitant, what is it like to get your haircut in the age of Covid?  I found out.  I actually did this interview during an actual haircut with Albany veteran stylist "Chaz" from UPPER CUT.  You'll hear some buzzing and clipping sounds.  It's all real. And so is our discussion.  What precautions are being taken?  Is it really all that different than before? (I'll already tell you- YES- have you ever had your temperature taken in a salon before?)  I also included a song I wrote the last day of my raggedy look.  I'm sure some of you can relate!  Here's his contact info.  I highly recommend him.  Very cautious (being of the same age bracket!)  1729 Central Ave Albany, New York 12205 Phone (518) 869-8155   Status Today 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM   Hours    

Although a very serious topic, I will admit this was an amazing experience to be able to undertake- a Zoom conference with great friends from Spain, England,  a newcomer from Atlanta, Georgia (who was in Finland for a year studying) , and here in Albany, NY. Kelly Jo Hearsey is a photographer and "Super Recognizer) for law enforcement.  Her husband Glenn installs and maintains cash register systems for restaurants and pubs. Both live in Buckinghamshire, England. Don Dworkin is a working musician from the Albany, NY area originally, and now living in  Madrid, Spain.  All 3 are longtime friends. Dana Haberling's name was given to me by my niece, Kiti Phillips.  Dana is studying for her degree in epidemiology in Atlanta, but studied abroad for a year in Finland. All of them give a  different "take" and amazing insights into the Covid pandemic from their experiences from where they reside,  and guarantee this will be a fascinating podcast to take a listen to.   The podcast ends with a bit of levity -  a love song I wrote for Social Distancing.   There's actually a "video wall" video to go with this featuring talent from the Albany, NY area, including local tv personalities and Albany's Mayor!  Here is the link https://www.facebook.com/rhyminrichie/videos/10222743260194107/ My website BTW is www.hirerichie.com  Coming soon - FACEBOOK LIVE PIANO BAR- every other Thursday- 7:30PM taking your requests!   @richiephillips  

Another great discussion under less-than-happy circumstances.   We talk to Carmen Lookshire, Jeff Brisbin, and Joe Kulewicz of Skeeter Creek about how these popular Albany Area, Capital Region musicians are dealing with being unable to pursue their live performances. But we do talk in the positive as well and describe how they are coming up with clever alternatives in spite of the coronavirus.  Here is how you can follow these TOP TALENTS online: www.carmenlookshire.com  on Facebook @CarmenTheSinger www.jeffbrisbin.com  Joe Kulewicz at www.skeetercreek.com  on Facebook @Skeeter Creek My website (looking for a custom song for that special someone?  Info is on there!, along with booking info, some parody songs, nostalgic old photos etc...  www.hirerichie.com  on Facebook @Richie Phillips or Rhyminrichiephillips  Check out ALL the episodes on here ! (42 and counting).     PS I also include a short calendar of upcoming Facebook Live events featuring other Albany Area musicians ( at the end of the podcast) Please be safe, and if you love someone - KEEP YOUR DISTANCE (weird seeing those two thoughts together! )       

If you are fans of these TOP TALENTS-  Erin Harkes, Chris Dollard, Sonny Daye and Perley Rousseau- and there are PLENTY of them in Albany's Capital Region and beyond, I ask that you take 1/2 hour or so of your time and listen to this discussion.  We all need entertainment and music in our lives, and these folks have been impacted bigly from this horrific pandemic.   They discuss their trials and tribulations here and possible things they are doing in the positive.  (And yes, you'll get some chuckles along the way)   This is Roundtable discussion 1- there will be more!    To follow them and support them:   www.erinharkes.com  and click on the Patreon page to help her out  ChrisDollard on Facebook  ChrisDollardmusic.com  Sonnyandperley.com Sonnyandperley on Facebook

  Mark Fleischer is the grandson of renowned animation pioneer Max Fleischer, and CEO of Fleischer Studios in California. .  Our connection here is that Max's sister was my brother Bill and my grandmother.  So this is a thrill in many ways to connect with him.   Thanks again to Ginny Mahoney Max’s granddaughter) for connecting me with Mark in the first place.  It made for a fascinating look into the creations and inventions of Max and his brothers.   Go to www.fleischerstudios.com for extensive detailed history and archived cartoons!       I dedicate this podcast to all my family members who are branches of this big tree...(I’ll never get to them all......apologies in advance..).  but they include..   Ethel (Max Fleischer’s sister) and Ben Phillips (grandparents) Their 3 Kids and spouses:  Morton and Rosalind Phillips  (mom and dad),  Larry and Phyllis Phillips (aunt and uncle) Paula and Maurice Seide (aunt and uncle)   THEIR KIDS AND SPOUSES in order of the couples above...   Morton and Rosalind Phillips: RICHIE AND DORRIE PHILLIPS BILL AND KAREN PHILLIPS   Larry and Phyllis Phillips: DIANE AND DR MARK STENCLIK NANCY AND MERRICK GOTLIB DR. PAUL PHILLIPS   Paula and Maurice Seide STEVE AND SUSAN SEIDE ARLENE AND GEORGE NELSON   AND TO THE MANY KIDS OF THOSE KIDS, THEIR SPOUSES AND THEIR KIDS......  OMG -What did I get myself into!   Thanks to my brother Bill Phillips, our son Ben Phillips, niece Jessica Lorenz  and nephew Tyler Phillips, and cousin Steve Seide for contributing questions.  I know my nephew Matt Phillips would have but is in the weeds covering the stock market debacle.. Please enjoy the podcast and I would appreciate if could subscribe and even leave a comment.  It helps greatly!   And one more thing - if you are planning a function and want entertainment (live keyboards with vocals or recorded music- DJ style.)...go to www.hirerichie.com  

This lady is EXACTLY what this podcast was created for.. to expose people to Top Talent..and SANGAH NOONA is IT!  Originally from South Korea, and now living in the Washington D.C. area, Sangah shows us how she has mastered the’88’s on YouTube and Facebook each week as well as in hotels in D.C. , and has a massive fan base to show for it.  (and she can now add ine more to that!) I stumbled upon her one night accidentally  by Googling “BEATLES PIANO”.  Her interpretations absolutely mesmerized me personally, and she plays EVERY genre imaginable.... Although I focus more on Albany NY area talent, I just HAD to make an exception.  Search her name on YouTube and sit back and you’ll see what I mean...And if you check it out on Sundays, you’ll see her LIVE taking requests! But before you do all that, please take a listen and share if you care!  ( I even wrote her a theme song because “NOONA” rhymes with where I live.. NISKAYUNA!). I couldn’t resist as I am now a HUGE fan, and you will be too!

Write this name down, cuz you're going to see a lot of her in the very near future.  That's my prediction (and hope) for Carmen Lookshire - a very, very talented Capital Region singer/songwritert and actress as well!   She was recently seen as Toby Ragg in “Sweeney Todd” with Two of Us Productions and as Nina Rosario in Schenectady Light Opera Company’s production of “In the Heights”. Carmen has also performed at various venues with guitarist Joe Carrick in New York, including Club Helsinki - Hudson Eden Café-Loudonville Wellington’s-Albany Cuckoo’s Nest - Albany Athos Restaurant Sperry’s -Saratoga The Duplex-NYC      We discuss the music biz in general, her new album "FOR LOVE", her experience recording in the studio,  and some really great advice to singers just starting out in the clubs (especially those in which the patrons don't seem to be paying attention -which is most of them!)  Her website is www.carmenlookshire.com.      Mine, by the way, if you are looking for some rollicking piano entertainment for your next event (and I can even write you a personalized song as I did for Carmen..), is                                               www.hirerichie.com  

Multi-talented newscaster, actor, singer, and all around pro - the Capital Region's Benita Zahn- is my guest on this episode.  We explore her background, how she balances her work with personal life, and examine the multitude of prestigious awards she has garnered over the years (despite her reluctance to pat herself on the back...) We talk theatre, health, her husband and much more!  She also has a podcast called EVERYTHING THEATRE - available on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get yours!  It airs every other Tuesday (kinda like mine!)  I also composed a little personalized theme song right at the top to salute her -which reminds me... I did it for her, and I can do one for YOU! If you have a person you would like to pay tribute to, I can write a song for you that I will record and email for your approval.   You can then forward it to whomever!  Surprise them at work, at home, or play it at their birthday, retirement party, employee recognition nite or the like.  I'm calling them "RichieRhymes", and if you email me at Richie1077@gmail.com I can give you different options.   Go to https://hirerichie.com/richie-rhymes and you can see examples! 

You don't necessarily have to live in the Capital Region to appreciate Al Bruno, but if you do, I'm sure you've either have heard him, seen him, or hired him -but always enjoyed him.  He is one of the musical "Road Warriors" who is out there singing his heart out in clubs and at private events in the Albany area AND BEYOND.  He is even in the process of recording a song in Nashville- produced and written by singer-songwriter and Montgomery Gentry band leader Eddie Kilgallon.   Al mentions Eddie in this interview along with someone else who he feels was influential in his career, former Albany area DJ Ric Mitchell. Talented singer-songwriter Mirinda James also gets her own props from Al. I hope you enjoy this interview.  Please subscribe to this podcast!  I would appreciate it greatly!  My website for booking information BTW is www.hirerichie.com.  I am available for private parties, weddings and company events.  I'll even write you a personalized song!!   

This is a little bit of extra content.. a ditty I wrote about the ridiculous law enacted in New York that would prohibit courts in NY from requiring bail money. I saw people getting riled up on Facebook and Twitter and thought I would try to put it to song !   It’s a rhyming editorial!Please feel free to share this and I invite you to subscribe to the podcast in general!    

  This podcast is truly a labor of love. It has personal meeting to me because every year since 1988 I have written a year end wrap-up song – and always a parody of the same tune- “WHEN JOHNNY COMES MARCHING HOME”.  No one’s really asked me to do it – and I’m not sure anyone cares if I do or not to be honest – but it’s just something that I thought would almost end up being a musical diary of what’s happened in the world For the past 3 plus decades.   Hopefully my grandson Aaron listen to it someday and will discover what a disturbed Grandpa he had!  In the podcast you’ll hear the very first one that I did in In the podcast you’ll hear the very first one that I did in and my latest.  ENJOY!  Happy 2020!    

This was an honor and a privilege to be able to highlight student talent in Albany's Capital Region, specifically Mohonasen High School in Rotterdam.  Dylan Smith and Laura Rickard are both talented musicians who have taken it upon themselves to write and record an original composition entitled  "Seconds" (Disclaimer here- this is a demo of their final production- I forgot to mention this in the interview- it's a work in progress.  Laura and Dylan are members of a band at the school who's members are going to add tracks to this, and I will post the final work when I get it) Special thanks to their music teacher, Gail Sparlin, for her leadership and source of inspiration to these students.   There are so many schools who have "nixed" their music programs altogether.  It's so great to see at least one school here that seems to put a unique emphasis on music education.   ROCK ON!!!  Please feel free to spread this podcast around to let everyone hear the song!!! 

It took awhile to make this happen, with many bumps along the way technically (apologies for the sketchy audio here -and you should have heard it BEFORE I fixed it!), but here it is- my EXCLUSIVE interview with the Capital Region's very own-- WEATHERMAN G!  It began as a hobby and he has fast become a local and regional phenomenon with thousands of facebook followers -eagerly waiting for his next round of colored charts and important prognostications! And he's incredibly accurate as we all know, though we know so little about him -  UNTIL NOW!! You'll be entertained and you'll learn about the finer points of weather forecasting.  (He also has some pretty specific info about what mother nature has in store for us this year - you won't want to miss that!) PLUS - I have written him a theme song, cuz I thought he needed it. That's included as well...   ENJOY!          

It's Top Talent :Radio Legends -Series 1: Fun interview with old friend and former colleague from radio station WGNA in Albany NY, "Dick Stark After Dark".  There are fun anecdotes from our time on the air, we discuss the changes in the radio biz, famous folks we ment, plus there's a clip of a song he cowrote with his brother David - recorded in Nashville- PLUS special surprise guests, including some other legends-yes- my 17 year morning radio partner and great friend - SEAN MCMASTER from my years on the  SEAN AND RICHIE SHOW.  (Sean and wife Andrea are now on B95.5 in Albany).   We also hear from our old boss, former program director and radio icon RONALD "BUZZ" BRINDLE, PLUS a distraught listener of Dick's who was callously insulted by him on the air years ago.  He gets equal time on this podcast!    I also include at the end (36 minutes in) a novelty song that I wrote years ago to answer the question " Where's the better place to live- upstate or downstate New York? It's my "RHYMATORIAL" hopefully for your enjoyment!                          (New service! I'll write a song for that special someone -delivered by email- I call this "RichieRhymes".  Samples at the link below                             My website https://hirerichie.com/richie-rhymes                               Songs Dick has co-written with brother David :                            https://wwwreverbnation.com/davidstark/songs                            His bio link:                            https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardstarkcharlotte                    (New service! I'll write a song for that special someone -delivered by email- I call this "RichieRhymes".  Samples at the link below                             My website https://hirerichie.com/richie-rhymes                                                    

Interview with Cohoes, New York,  Albany area and Capital Region resident: Season 17 finalist from American Idol, Madison Vandenburg.  Almost all questions in this episode come from Facebook fans.  Thanks for your contributions! I also play "This is Your Life" with her to see if she can identify "the mystery voice" from her past! Order her new song "What I'm Looking For", her merch and catch up on her upcoming appearances at https://www.madisonvandenburg.com/   Looking for music and entertainment for your next event? Conferences, weddings, retirement parties, corporate functions ? I can write you a customized song about your group!  Info and testimonials at  www.hirerichie.com/testimonials or www.rhyminrichie.com/testimonials (both take you to the same place) Do you know someone who is super dooper, over the top talented?  I'd love to have them on!  Shoot me an email https://rhyminrichie.com/contact Find me on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/rhyminrichie                        Twitter www.twitter.com/Rhyminrichie