Ricky Shipp - Bio

Instrumentalist and vocalist Ricky Shipp was born in 1966 at Charleville Queensland. He lived there until the age of 10 when he and his family moved to Toowoomba on the Darling Downs Queensland.

It was at this age that he learned the guitar, influenced by the late Barry Thornton and Slim Dusty. Ricky played in his first band at the age of 13, playing and singing traditional country music. At the age of 15 his talent was recognised by the late Stan Coster who took Ricky on the road with his band for 5 years touring Australia.

Ricky then worked and toured with the great Brian Young Show for 10 years. The Brian Young Show showcased the latest and most talented country music artists in the country at the time, including a young Becky Cole and Troy Cassar-Daly. He annually toured throughout remote aboriginal communities of Queensland, Northern Territory, Western Australia and South Australia. Ricky had to become a versatile guitarist as the acts and musical styles on the show varied from Traditional Country Music to folk and country rock.

In 1986 Ricky released his first single, a self composed instrumental called “Yam Jam”. This track was placed in the top ten for “Instrumental of  the Year” and in the top five for “Best New Talent” at the 1987 Tamworth Golden Guitar Awards.

Ricky has since released two Cds entitled “Caribbean Breeze” which includes all instrumental tracks and most recently “Who I Am” which includes  a blend of vocal tracks and instrumentals.

Ricky currently works as a session musician in between touring and appearing at various country music festivals.

I first met Ricky in the early nineties when he came to the Territory with the Bran Young Show. I have seen and heard many guitar players over the years and I’d have to say Ricky in one of the finest in the country. He can play any style and he easily fits in with who ever he plays for. To me he is one of the greatest and I’s love to have him in my band. Warren H Williams

Shippy and I go back a long way! I’ve had the pleasure of seeing a talented teenager mature into a versatile, much sought after musician, with a style all of his own. He can confidently adapt his “gift” to suit any situation the music world may throw at him. Not an easy task by any means. I’m honoured to have worked with Ricky in a variety of situations, but more so honoured to know and respect the man. Listen to the music he creates – it says it all. My Best Always… Dave Cowell.

Ricky can be contacted by phoning 0432 351 577
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