Music Minute - Ricochet Then and Now

 ACM award-winning 90s country vocal group, Ricochet, best known for their chart-topping, gold-selling single, “Daddy’s Money,” Top-10 hits, “What Do I Know,” “Love Is Stronger Than Pride,” and the Top-20 “He Left A Lot To Be Desired,” has signed with Encore Music Group to release the band’s first album in over a decade. 'Ricochet Then & Now…The Hits & More' (distributed by Smith Music Group), is slated for release on August 18 and will mark the 30th anniversary of the band’s formation in 1993.

With various tracks being produced by Robert Wright, Justin Spears, Pat McMakin, and Eric Silver, the 16-track project reflects Ricochet’s past success with new renditions of their classic hits, and introduces 8 new songs indicative that the group has no plans of letting up anytime soon.

Despite the change in band members throughout the years, Ricochet still possesses their trademark harmonious vocal sound and is considered one of the hardest-working bands in the business. For nearly two decades, original lead vocalist Heath Wright has maintained the group’s legacy and fan base with a hefty tour schedule. Current band members are Chris Hempfling (vocals, drums), Rick Toops (vocals, keys), Bruce Bennett (vocals, bass), and Larry Hight (vocals, rhythm/lead guitar, steel, dobro, and saxophone).

“This is an exciting time for Ricochet. The 90s era of country music is hotter than ever and people are able to find our music quicker than ever, so to release our hits and new music for the first time in over 20 years is exciting,” says Heath Wright. “I hope everyone enjoys hearing these new recordings as much as we loved recording them. We went in and gave our old hits a new shine and then recorded some long-overdue new material for the fans. It is, in my opinion, the very best of RICOCHET… Then and Now!”

‘Ricochet Then & Now… The Hits & More’ is the second album released by Encore Music Group this year to meet the current mainstream demand for the resurgence of ‘90s country—one that Spotify indicates has grown 150% since 2018 (70% among Gen Z users). The streaming service cites an estimated 89 million playlists from Gen Z users containing ’90s country tracks with as many fans between 19-24 who listen to ’90s Country playlists as fans over 45.

“We are really excited about this forthcoming recording project from the award-winning band Ricochet,” says Justin Ward, President of Encore Music Group. “They are one of the most beloved vocal groups in country music history and Heath Wright’s vocals are as strong as ever! We can’t wait to get this music out to their fans and watch a new legion of fans discover them for the first time!”

ABOUT RICOCHET:
In 1996 the members of country super group Ricochet watched their debut single, “What Do I Know”, rise to the Top 5 earning the band the honor of the highest charting debut single of the year. The follow-up single, “Daddy’s Money,”, became an immediate across-the-board hit, rising to #1 on the Radio & Records Country Singles Chart, the Gavin Country Singles Chart, and the Billboard Country Singles Chart (where it stayed #1 for two consecutive weeks). The band’s distinctive musical style and intricate harmonies earned them recognition as one of the most popular vocal groups in country music, a mantle they still wear today.

Now, more than fifteen years later, “The Hardest Working Band In Country Music” is still going strong. The band continues to create great country music, sung with the distinctive harmonies that are their hallmark. They log thousands of miles on the road each year thrilling audiences of all ages across the United States and abroad. For more information, visit ricochetonline.com.

ABOUT ENCORE MUSIC GROUP:
Encore Music Group, founded in 2022 by Justin Ward, CEO, firmly believes in “ Serving Music,” and providing excellence within the world of entertainment. Based in the heart of “Music City” (Nashville, Tenn.), Encore Music Group, whose roster includes Jeff Carson and Ricochet (with more to come in the near future), was built in conjunction with our sister company, Encore Luxury Coach Leasing, LLC, a provider of fine touring coaches with sought-after amenities so artists can travel in comfort and luxury. Encore isn’t afraid to roll up its sleeves to super-service its clients and fans and strives daily to be a brand that you can trust and believe in. For more information, visit encoremusicgroup.com.