Artist Pick of the Week – Ron Rutherford July 4, 2010
Ron was born in Oklahoma but grew up in Texas, primarily Dallas. He eventually landed in New York City where he pursued his love for music and now continues his passion in the Los Angeles area. He has written over 300 songs, culminating in his recent decision to create an independent label and release his music to the world on his own terms.
“My songs are straight from the heart of life experience. The lyrics say things I feel people will truly connect with because they too have been there, done that. Music should stimulate the mind and rock the soul. It does exactly that for me – that’s why I had such a great time making the album. Now it’s there for everyone to enjoy.”
Ron Rutherford is a man whose life has been built around music.
He fondly recalls bouncing on the back seat of his Father’s Chevy Bel Air to The Beatles singing “I Want To Hold Your Hand” on the radio.
“It was a typically beautiful Dallas, Texas day,” he says, “blue skies and fair weather cumulus clouds out the windshield as we sped down the highway.” It proved to be a seminal ride. He has been inspired by and passionate about music ever since.
Ron played piano as a kid in Texas. Moving to New York City as a young man, he took up guitar.
While living in New York, he played and sang around Manhattan and the Northeast; did some television and jingle work; was written up in the New York Times for his performances with The Rutherford & Steward Band; and wrote and performed briefly with legendary rock pianist Nicky Hopkins.
Ron Rutherford’s musical influences are eclectic and diverse including such artists as: The Eagles, Don Henley, Crosby Stills Nash & Young, Neil Young, Jackson Browne, Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band, The Steve Miller Band, Van Morrison, Buddy Holly, The Everly Brothers, The Beatles, The Byrds, Buffalo Springfield, The Band, The Allman Brothers, Creedence, Little Feat, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, Elvis Costello, Traffic, Leon Russell, Bryan Adams, John Mellencamp, Rodney Crowell, Warren Zevon and Hank Williams.
Although growing up listening to and loving Rock and Roll on the radio and records, he had country music in his ears wherever he went, just from living in Texas – and both had a profound impact on him.
Ron Rutherford’s music is something familiar you’ve never heard before – stories of love, loss, insight, and inspiration. Picture a full moon over a long lost trail and a lone wolf that beckons the listener to follow to the end.
A potent mixture of Country Rock, Southern Rock and Classic Rock with elements of Blues and Pop. A unique voice and down-to-the-bone songs combined with the sounds of some of the finest musicians you’ve ever heard.
Ron can be reached at www.myspace.com/rarestar and you can purchase his music several different ways also listed on his myspace.
RG's Artist Bio of the Month 