Interview With Country Artist, Ricky Cook, on New Music and All Things Nashville!

Thanks for talking with us Ricky! So, how is 2018 treating you so far?

FANTASTIC –  With a debut single and a debut album, I am living my dream.  I am very blessed.

Speaking of the dream, why Nashville? What brought you here, and what’s kept you here?

It’s the biggest city closest to where I’m from in Oakdale, TN that loves country music and my songwriting, of course. Besides music, Nashville overall is just a great place to live, from its friendly people to its small-town atmosphere.  Even though it has grown immensely in the last five years, it still feels comfortable to walk down the streets.  And, you still never know when you are going to run into Dolly Parton in a Mexican Restaurant.

Do you have any favorite shops in or around Nashville? If so, any tips for great finds?

Lowes and Home Depot.  I really don’t have much advice or any tips because I’m just not a shopper.  I go in and get what I need.  But I do go to Lowes almost every day.

Let’s talk favorites! Favorite underground music joint:

I stick close to the house these days with so much going on.  But, I do like to drop in on occasion at Rebar at the Dam for hanging out with friends and some good music.  

Favorite dinner spot:

Hermitage Steak House.   It’s been a tradition in this area for over 30 years.  

Nashville hot chicken:

You’re not going to believe it, but this place that opened in Mt. Juliet.  Not many people really know they specialize in Nashville Hot Chicken.  It’s called the Woodfire Grille. They offer affordable southern cuisine and their Signature Hot Chicken.  They took a chance on this side of the city and they are doing it right.  They got the stamp of approval from the family that runs one of the originators, Princes.  And if you can’t handle the hot stuff, they have Auntie’s Meatloaf and some good beans and greens.

What do you like most about recording music in Nashville?

The top-level quality of musicians and engineers you get to work with.  No other place like it has guys that can play on the spot like ours do.   I think that’s why you hear about superstars of all genres coming to record here.  We are called Music City for a lot of reasons.  The musicians are certainly a big part, and they don’t always get their due.

Will you be playing in town any time soon?

Right now, I don’t have any dates scheduled here in town.  We are really busy with the upcoming radio tour. But, I’ll keep you posted.

At the end of the day, what do you hope is the message of your music? What do you hope people take away from your songs?

Through good times, bad times, fun ones and sad ones…we are all in this together, and if we stick together and support each other we will all be okay. My songs all have different messages, but I hope each one touches someone going through the same struggles or the same joys.