Album Notes

Rick Abao was an excellent American entertainer, singer, musician, composer and songwriter. His roots were in jazz and he was born in New Orleans, but he also studied classical guitar at the world famous Andrés Segovia School in Spain. After his studies Rick went to see some friends in Germany and was offered performances here and there and suddenly he realized that some years had passed and he had become so popular and beloved that he could not leave the country anymore. He was so multitalented and mastered so many styles in music that it is almost impossible to find a category for him. Rick developed a very special form of entertainment including American and European elements. Rick was known as \"The Spirit of Rhythm & Jazz\" and he captured audiences around the world with his unforgettable live performances.
However, he had to leave this world too early. He was one of those who did not conquer cancer. This CD is dedicated to him as a great human, as a talented artist, to his music and to his beautiful songs. Through his songs Rick wanted to create a better world and spread more understanding, peace and love among people. He did it in his way, sometimes in a way of good humor - like in \"Mr. Peace for President\". Five of the songs are remakes with Rick. The other singers and musicians on this CD are closely bound to Rick and his idea of life. They are his former students, who have made a great career in the meanwhile.
They all came to Finland, where this CD was produced by Rick\'s Finnish wife Ritva and the well known Finnish musician Markojuhani Rautavaara. They all came and sang and played in Rick\'s spirit and you can hear the great feeling, the love and the engagement of them in every song.