"Plain and Simple" might be the name of his debut cd which was released in 2007, but Joey Richard is anything but that. After hearing him sing in a session recording for the Boogie Kings, the late Ned Theall, who founded, managed, and played for the group for over 40 years, told him he had a very powerful voice with the potential to be the next Jerry LaCroix (Edgar Winters' White Trash and one of Joey's inspirations).
Joey's family moved to Nashville, TN when he was just seven years young, but twelve years later would realize his true home was back in south Louisiana. In 2005, Joey decided to "pack up his heart, his clothes, and his keys (as stated on Track 7 of Plain and Simple) and "Leave It All Behind" (as stated on track 9 of his CD). What he did bring with him is a passion and a drive to create music that moves people. He says, "There's no greater feeling than getting up on stage and giving every song, everything you've got, and when the crowd starts feeling it, they bring you to a place you didn't think you could go. It's the closest thing to heaven on earth I've ever felt."
He started writing songs when he was 15 that caught some attention from family and friends, but with little stage experience Joey he had some work ahead of him. He was fortunate enough a father, Wade Richard, who had graced the Louisiana music scene since the age of 15. Wade, quickly taught him how to have confidence without being cocky, and quickly an energetic, lively stage presence who makes an effort to give the audience a show they'll remember.
Joey currently plays piano and B3 organ with "Damon Troy", one of the top Cajun/Zydeco acts in south Louisiana. He also had stints with "Jaryd Lane", a young up and comer in the country music scene, "The Wade Richard Band" and "The Other Side", two variety Rhythm & Blues bands as the bassist. He has done session recording for a few local artists. Most importantly he's currently performing his own live shows and writing songs in preparation for his own EP which currently doesn't have a release date, but he's hopeful for a late summer '10 release.
"Plain and Simple" features Joey's craftsmanship as a sultry songwriter, boasting 9 out of 10 songs as his own. Going home to south Louisiana has allowed him to reach back to his deepest roots and redefine himself as an artist. While keeping the same sincerity and realness of the first record, the new EP will feature a soulful, more blues-driven sound from the artist. When asked if he had anything he wanted to add he said, "It's gonna be a hell of a ride/I don't wanna take it alone/ When you're just gettin' started/ You gotta rock before you roll!" (from the song "Rock Before You Roll" on the upcoming EP)
