Ronnie Wells learned to play drums at an early age and has remained a musician throughout his life, even during his lengthy medical career. Now retired from medicine, Ronnie is devoting his time to his first love, music as he prepares to release his second solo album. Ronnie's early years were spent playing in some of NYC's well-known nightclub, mingling withDiana Ross and Mary Wilson of “The Supremes.” Now, Ronnie is returning to music on his own terms with a compilation of original songs and covers.
When did you start in the music industry?
At about age 16 playing drums in the high school band and in the drum corp.
Who were your main influences starting out?
Back then it was Bobby Rydell, The Shirrells, The Duprees, Frank Sinatra, Bobby Darin and later on The Four Seasons, then to Chicago, Blood Sweat & Tears, the Classics Four, etc.
You’ve been playing for a while, how do you feel your sound has changed throughout the years?
Before writing my own material, my method in performing cover material has changed to a more precise duplication of the original music and phrasing of the original artist, which began gaining me a reputation as a stylist as far as my vocals were concerned and the accuracy of my music.
How would you describe your sound?
I would say more Adult Contemporary / Soft Rock.
What’s been your most rewarding career experience?
Strangely playing bass with some of the 60’s recording acts.
You also produce, how did you get started in production?
Once I began writing, producing and recording my own material, the studio would occasionally ask if I was interested in producing other sessions that were in need of assistance in arranging and/or adding instrumentation to existing tracks.
When did you start writing your own material?
With the exception of 1983, when I co-wrote and recorded the music for lyrics a friend of mine had written, which was later featured and sung by Conan O’Brien in a skit he did on his show. I officially started writing in 2010, after semi-retiring from the medical field and having more time to devote to music.
Tell me a bit about your current CD?
The current CD will be titled “Say It With A Song” which is the title track on the album. Still not completed, with either a few standard covers or more of my originals soon to be added.
Where can people find your music?
My original album, “MY BAD” is available on I-Tunes, Amazon and CD Baby. My songs are also available on “JANGO” Internet radio under “Ronnie Wells Radio”
Do you have any upcoming gigs?
I’m setting up some upcoming shows. Keep an eye on my website for dates and times.
To find out more about Ronnie Wells, his music and upcoming performances go directly to the website: www.ronniewellsmusic.com
Ronnie Wells
