In a world of over polished productions and curated images, some artists stand out for their raw authenticity. Fredericton’s Richie Young is one of them. While I often review albums and concerts, it’s a rare opportunity to explore the soul behind the music – and Young’s is one worth knowing.
With over a decade in New Brunswick’s music scene, Young is as comfortable on a major festival stage as he is busking on a street corner. He doesn’t wield a pristine, high-end guitar; instead, his well-worn instruments tell a story of countless gigs and relentless passion. While he can sometimes be found sharing the stage with a band, he is most at ease as a solo performer, a true one-man-band. With a kick drum and pedal activated snare at his feet, a harmonica rig around his neck, and a guitar in hand, he creates a sound far larger than himself. The technical skill is impressive, but it’s the soul behind it that truly captivates.
Young’s voice carries a gravel of experience, and his guitar tone is just as expressive. While his music is rooted in the blues, he refuses to be confined by genre, exploring sounds and styles without hesitation. His songs are not static recordings but living things, evolving with each performance while holding onto their essential truth. He isn’t trying to reinvent music; he is channeling it. For Young, songs are direct expressions of thought and emotion, and his instruments are simply extensions of his own body.
His distinctive style isn’t a costume or an act. On anyone else, his clothes might seem like a performance, a bid for attention. On Richie, they are just a natural part of who he is. There’s no pretense, no need for a second glance to figure him out. As those who know him say, “That’s just Richie. That’s who he is.”
While AI-generated music has been making headlines as of late, the work of human artists like Richie Young provides a necessary counterpoint. The perceived “perfection” of algorithmic compositions often lacks the essential imperfections that define true artistry. It is within these nuances – a subtle string buzz, an extra breath before a chorus – that an artist’s unique personality and emotional depth are found. While AI can produce technically flawless entertainment, it struggles to replicate the authentic, human connection that transforms music into art. Young’s work serves as a powerful demonstration of this distinction.
Ollie LeBlanc, based in Fredericton, New Brunswick, discovered his love for music in his parents' basement with a box of classic rock LPs. A lifelong fan, his fascination with music has only grown over the past three decades as a musician. Ollie has worn many hats, including bassist, producer, engineer, and photographer. As he matures, his journey has become more about contributing to the musical community and sharing its richness. What better way to give back to the medium that has given him so much!
