Ricky Calmbach first hit the Texas Music scene in June of 2001 thanks to a stroke of luck (or fate) one morning on the legendary Sam & Bob morning call-in show on 98.1 KVET radio in Austin, TX. The event is best described by radio veteran, Bob Cole:
"One morning several months ago, I unbelievably but almost divinely played a song off of an unknown album that was lying in the studio and opened a BIG can of worms. Ricky Calmbach instantly became a local celebrity in Austin with one of the largest, most genuine, and overwhelming responses I have ever experienced in 30 years of radio. That is a considerable achievement considering how critical the Sam and Bob Show audience so often is.” (Bob Cole 2001)
Ricky’s roots actually began a few years before in 1998 with his freshman effort, Ricky Calmbach and the Backporch Band, in Smithville, TX. The happenings on the radio in 2001 just became the spark that launched Ricky into a larger Texas audience. Since that first self-titled album cut in 2000, Ricky has recorded two more , Texas Standard Time (2002), and A Step in the Right Direction (2004). Each of the three albums are collections of Ricky’s traditional sounds with a flare of western swing. Ricky authors most of the music he records adding an occasional classic to the mix.
As 2007 has ended and 2008 has begun, Ricky and the band are making plans to begin work on a fourth CD and are experiencing great success on the road in Texas. To see where Ricky will be next stay tuned to rickycalmbach.com.
My husband and I (the gangster and the flapper) had soooo much fun at the Cotton Club on Halloween. You have an amazing voice and made our night that much better! Thanks for a great show and we can't wait to see you again!
I finally had some face time with my computer and looked and listened to your site here! Wow! You totally remind me of George back in the day- my favorite! I will listen in on ya from time to time, maybe catch a show someday? You have am amazing voice! Thanks for the friendship! -Evelyn
HEY RICKY, MUCH APPRECIATION MI AMIGO FOR JOININ' UP WITH THIS OUTFIT. HOPE YOU HAVE THE TIME TO STAY A SPELL, IF NOT, KNOW YOU'RE ALWAYS WELCOME BACK ANY OLD TIME. MUCH THANKS AGAIN. 'TIL THEN, ADIOS COMPADRE! SWL
My family and I were at the Cotton Club and got the chance to come out and hear you and the band play, we had a great time dancing and enjoy your music!
Thanks for being such a great friend!!! YOU ROCK!!!
If you are around Friday August 28th I'll be having a big show at Tumbleweed Texas with the Spiffingtons in Houston Texas I really hope to see you there!!! Love ~Susan www.susanhickman.com
thank you so much for such a great show at club 21. What a great night our favorite band and favorite dance hall. Thank you Ricky you are awsome! Also please let me know what your rates are for playing at our wedding we are wanting to book you for the reception. love ya! Wesley and Martha
