Local artist profile: Kim Ritchie

THIS week we chat with legendary long-time local country music singer and guitarist Kim Ritchie.

What initially motivated you to become a singer and guitarist?

I come from a musical family and more often than not, was exposed to various musical happenings whether it be a family party/get together or a concert. I grew up listening to country music and because of that, was inspired to take up singing and playing guitar at an early age.

How would you describe your style?

I would describe my style as easy listening, country, and variety. When I first started performing, I was primarily interested in country music alone because that’s what I grew up with. However, as time went by, I became interested in 60s and 70s rock’n’roll because I knew that quite a few songs of that era would suit my voice and people would enjoy hearing them.

Listening to the likes of Slim Dusty, Charley Pride, Patsy Kline, Anne Murray and Dolly Parton, just to name a few, is how I developed my style of music.

Which other bands or musicians inspire you and why?

I like groups such as The Eagles and Creedence Clearwater Revival along with musicians such as Buddy Holly and Linda Ronstadt. I find their styles of music easy on the ear and their songs well received and easy to learn.

What are some highlights you have from your career so far?

Being given two opportunities to perform on live television both in Australia and New Zealand, which are as follows: Wednesday Magazine – a weekly television show with Anne Jones that used to be on Southern Cross TV8 in Bendigo (now Win Television) in 1988, and the Good Morning Show on TV1 in New Zealand with Mary Lambie in 2002.

Being asked to perform in support of John Williamson in 2007 at the Kerang True Blue Drought Relief Concert in order to raise money for drought-stricken farmers and being invited to perform at the 2009 Katherine Country Music Muster in the Northern Territory.

Performing regularly at the Mildura Country Music Festival between 2011 and 2019, plus going to the Tamworth Country Music Festival in 2011 and taking part in some of the events for walk up artists as well as busking in the street.

How can people check out your music online?

I don’t have a website as such but there are video clips of me on YouTube and there’s even one of me on the ABC website from when I launched my second album called From Me To You in 2010. I also have a Facebook page where I post live videos of performances. People are more than welcome to look me up.

Do you have any gigs coming up in the near future?

I’m performing on Sunday 24 September at the Cohuna Farmers & Makers Market. Apart from that, I have some local nursing home gigs coming up. I get a lot of pleasure out of entertaining the residents and putting smiles on their faces.

What would you say to young regional aspiring musicians who are thinking of making a go of the creative life?

Don’t let anyone or anything stop you. Put yourself out there and push your own barrow because no one else will do it for you. Yes, it’s hard work in the beginning, but it will pay off in the end.