At the age of 15, a cousin showed Rich a few chords on an old guitar and his interest was sparked. Never having had a formal lesson since that first experience he began playing by ear, recognizing his unique strumming style as truly a God given talent.
Immediately following his graduation from Bayonne High School, while Rich's high school band was playing at a local club, he was spotted by the producers of the 1910 Fruitgum Company. Impressed with Rich's voice, guitar playing and animated stage presence, he was approached and asked to formally audition. He later signed to join the 1910 Fruitgum Company. Rich's dream of success had begun.
Through recordings done with the 'Fruitgum" Company, Rich was awarded the RIAA Gold Record Award to commemorate the sale of more than one million copies of the hit single, "Indian Giver."
Touring with the this band Rich appeared in concert with notable groups like, "The Monkees", "Sly and the Family Stone" and "The Ohio Express". He also composed songs for two albums, "Special Delivery" and "Hard Ride" released internationally.
In 1970 Rich formed his own band, "Hudson County". Years of clubs and concert dates led to a recording contract with RCA records and the single release of an original song, "Heaven's Here On Earth."
Hearing of an audition for the Broadway Show "BEATLEMANIA", Rich was encouraged by his friends to "go for it". Showing up for the audition and seeing the reality of the hundreds of other hopefuls, Rich was thrilled to hear the news that he had gotten the part. For the next 3 years he appeared on Broadway and in major cities across the United States and Canada as "George Harrison" in the world renowned show.
Some years earlier (1973), Rich had received Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He had been brought up in a devout Catholic family and searched for God through Jehovah's Witnesses. Finally realizing that the only Truth that could set him free was a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Having made that choice it took several years till he recognized that he was pursuing his career and not pursuing the call of God on his life.
After three grueling years of touring and playing the same 30 Beatle songs every night, Rich decided to say "yes" to the voice of the Lord. He enrolled in Advanced Christian Training School, and began to attend church faithfully. Graduating as valedictorian, Rich became actively involved in music ministry as worship leader at Faith Fellowship Ministries. He began with a small group but watched it grow into a 20 piece orchestra and a 100 voice choir.
A highlight in ministry came when Rich had the opportunity to lead worship for a live praise & worship recording for an Integrity Hosanna!® praise album entitled "Almighty." He was also blessed when his original song "Let Everything That Has Breath" was selected for the top selling praise & worship recording by Ron Kenoly, entitled, "Lift Him Up."
First on his priority list, just after his relationship with the Lord, is his beautiful wife, Cathy.
Rich is committed to the call of God on his life and continues in worship as in life to,
"Seek first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness."
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