Biography Ric Castleman born in Columbus, Ohio and shortly there after transplanted to Michigan. His first debut in the music world was at the age of four when he was heard playing songs on a harmonica that was acquired illegally from his fathers dresser drawer. Realizing he had just been busted for petty theft from his dad, he moved on to playing on the piano, of which was not off bounds. By the age of Twelve, an interest in Trumpet was in full gear. Only being able to play one note at a time sparked an interest in Guitar at the age of thirteen to overcome the one note samba syndrome. At fifteen teaching guitar at the local music store generated a comfortable income of which was reinvested back into music equipment. Garage bands and High School dances also generated useful funds.
Moving to Grand Rapids in 1971 and going to Kendall School of Design days and teaching guitar in the evenings at Farrow’s Music on Division at that time. Weekend gigs were a regular. About a year and a half went by and an audition to travel on the road with a vocal group from the fifty’s with thirteen separate million sellers, by the name of “The Hilltoppers” found Ric and took him all over the US of A. Getting off the road in Florida, getting married, starting a family, created a great responsibility. The Army Band looked like it had something pretty good to offer to an experienced musician. With a guaranty to go to Germany as a guitar player in the Army Band, the rest was history. Traveling all over Europe, playing in Pori Finland with the likes of Herbie Hancock, Wa Wa Watson, Stanley Clark , Stan Getz and many other Jazz greats. Check this link for Pori Jazz Festival. Copy and paste these following links; https://ollilaasanen.wordpress.com/2013/04/23/u-s-army-band-in-finland-pori-jazz-1976/ Also visit the Rockin' Robin Band FaceBook page....... Facebook.com/rrbrocks Homecoming and onto Houston,Texas............Yee Haw! He was fixin’ to play country and western I reckon! Not his cup of tea, but you know what they say, “When in Rome.......... do as the Romans do. OK! Maybe not exactly what the Romans actually did. You get the idea! After too many years to count , Ric managed to find Grand Rapids Michigan again. Came all the way back to end up in a country rock band by the name of Midnite Ryder opening for Waylon Jennings. Other bands to follow such as Marauder, Just Jake, Nowhere Band (Beatles Tribute) and soloing along the shore of Lake Michigan. After taking a sabbatical from the club scene, Ric dusted off the old rig and has come out of hiding to kick out the jams. Doing both unplugged acoustic and plugged in! Photos by Pam Castleman Sky by God's Paintbrush |
Ric CastlemanProfessional Musician
Guitar Teacher Mentor Music Ministries Instruments; Guitar, Bass, Keyboards, Harmonica, Vibes, Vocals Background Vocals, and Percussion Influences
Having a love for all genres of music, Ric might even be found playing Mason William’s Classical Gas. In blues alone there are many influences such as Keb Mo, BB King, Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy, Stevie Ray Vaughn and many more. Middle of the Road; James Taylor, Van Morrison, Jim Croce, Randy Newman, Jimmy Buffett, Leon Redbone, are just a few. How about the Beatles, Chuck Berry, James Brown, War, Bob Seger, Eagles , Joe Cocker, Otis Redding, Delbert McClinton, Jerry Jeff Walker, Clint Black and so much more.
Events * Party * Night Club * WeddingsLooking for entertainment for your next event, party, wedding or night club venue? Here is an act that will leave you in amazement of his variety of styles of music. From Buffett to Bach and back again. How about a ride on a music time machine from the present back down memory lane to the past? A memorable time will be enjoyed by all. Ric’s love for all genres spreads like wildfire in a crowded room. Combined with his humor and audience participation you will feel right at home with his personality. Contact for more information on bookings. I have a self contained rig that is battery powered. No plugin required. This means Boat parties, Backyard Parties, Hay rides / campfires or let your imagination flow. Micro concerts.
Lessons & MentoringRic has been teaching guitar for over 40 years to all age groups. Electric, acoustic, and bass guitar. I have also mentored in vocal training. Most any genre or technique. Please contact for lesson rates and available times!
[email protected] or call 616-881-6536 Rockin' Robin Band Rockin' Robin Band is the latest project to hit the streets! Chris Jacoby Drums, Jeff Bevins Bass and Ric Castleman Guitar and Vocals. This is one rockin rockabilly band you can't miss. Will be doing car shows, summer concerts around West Michigan. Look for us @ Facebook.com/rrbrocks for upcoming events. Look for us at Fricano's Pizza Hotrod Tuesdays for their Season Opening May 23rd (over 150 classic cars) starting 5pm till 7:30pm or later. 5808 Alpine Ave NW
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