John “JR” Rickinger (drums, lead and background vocals) Over the years, John has played big band to hard rock, top 40s, swing, jazz to blues. He started performing with a semi-pro band at the age of 13 in “THE WAY of TODAY,” a group of guys in their 30’s. Although it’s been a long time since his dad had to be a chaperone, John’s drive and passion for music has never faded.
In 1966 -1974 John formed bands “DAWN of CREATION,” “PEACE VALLEY CONNECTION,” and “SENSATION.” In the mid-70’s the four-piece band “SENSATION” performed on many local TV shows, night clubs, festivals as well as at the openings of the Southridge and Northridge malls. They were asked to be the opening act for the jazz great, Stan Kenton at his packed performance in Downtown Milwaukee.
John, along with members from other successful area bands, originally started the band “SOUND INVESTMENT” in 1980. In 2005, when the band changed its name to “Room to Move” and through the past 42 years has been blessed with many very talented musicians and great friendships.
JR enjoys a life of balance between his love of his family, classic cars, music, and his professional life, as a creative, marketing, branding professional for over 48 years.
