Rob Riccardo @ The Laughing Goat

Rob Riccardo is an Arizona-based singer-songwriter who creates a unique blend of folk and roots music with a heavy serving of conscious lyrics. Originally from the beaches of Long Island, New York, the foundation of Rob’s musical vibe derives from the surf scene of his formative years on the East Coast. Shortly after picking up the guitar in high school, Rob discovered the acoustically driven melodies and socially conscious lyrics of artists like Jack Johnson, John Butler Trio and Xavier Rudd. These musicians, along with classic troubadours from his father’s record collection, would serve as the initial inspiration for writing his own songs. Following a long post-college hiatus from playing music, Rob moved West and, encouraged by his wife, started to take songwriting seriously for the first time. Drawing inspiration mainly from his yoga/meditation practice and his love for the mountains and the sea, Rob has written and released several full-length albums and EPs since his 2017 debut. His latest album, The Fire in Me, is an entirely self-produced, home-recorded album that covers a diverse sonic spectrum and features positive lyrical themes reflecting on personal growth.