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RIZZ & THE BELIEVERZ is a movement, a philosophy, and a beacon of positivity in the world of music…and their official introduction begins today with the release of their first-ever single and video, “Don’t Stop Tryin’,’ which was written to spark this movement.
The song is now available on all digital outlets with distribution via Select-O-Hits, and the video (directed/edited by Devon Lancaster) can be seen on the band’s official YouTube page.
“Being able to design the video set myself was a blessing,” explains lead singer Rizz, “because I could really give the viewers an insight into my imagination.”
As founding drummer (formerly of Tesla) Troy Luccketta concludes: “I feel that all of the projects I’ve been a part of and the things I’ve done throughout my career have all led me to this moment, and I couldn’t be happier.”
Featuring a stellar lineup of A-class musicians, their sound is an intricate blend of rock, reggae, and hip-hop influences, creating a global resonance that appeals to the masses. They represent a fusion of iconic talent, each bringing their unique legacy to the ensemble. In addition to powerhouse drummer Luccketta, Peter Keys, the masterful keys maestro from Lynyrd Skynyrd, injects soulful layers into the sound, while Michael Staertow brings a pedigree that includes many years as lead guitarist with original Foreigner vocalist, and solo artist Lou Gramm. Michael Devin, a stalwart from Whitesnake and The Dead Daisies lays down the bass grooves, and multi-instrumentalist John Salaway adds his distinct touch. Percussionist Troy Luccketta Jr. introduces a rhythmic dimension that bridges the musical eras.
Fronting this illustrious lineup is the dynamic Rizz, a vibrant singer hailing from a different era of music. Born and raised in Reno, NV, his youthful energy and modern vocal stylings harmonize seamlessly with the collective experience of the seasoned musicians.
More calls to action in the form of new music will continue to be released in the coming months, culminating in a full album later this year along with concerts across the country. Last month they appeared as part of the 2024 Reggae Rise Up Florida in St. Petersburg, FL last month along with The Dirty Heads, Slightly Stoopid, and Damian & Stephen Marley, performing on the Sugar Shack Stage.
Last year, RIZZ & THE BELIEVERZ traveled to Kingston, Jamaica at the invitation of Wilburn “Squidly” Cole (son of Ska legend StrangeJah Cole and nephew of Donald “Tabby Diamond” Shaw), where they had an extra special opportunity to record for a week at Bob Marley’s legendary Tuff Gong Studio. During that time, they recorded and filmed a live acoustic version of “Don’t Stop Tryin” with Troy Luccketta and Wilburn “Squidly” Cole on congas, John Salaway on guitar with Rizz on vocals which can be seen on the band’s YouTube page.
As Rizz declares, “Going from the heart of reggae in the King of reggae’s studio, to being in Memphis, TN at Select-O-Hits sitting across from Johnny Phillips, the nephew of Sam Phillips who founded Sun Records and signed Elvis the King of rock ‘n roll, to sign our own distribution deal for our reggae/rock song was nothing but confirmation that this is meant to be.”
” I wanna feel my music,” Rizz concludes. “Be moved by it, or what’s the point!?”