I typically gravitate towards reviewing full albums rather than singles, as I find a complete body of work more compelling. However, Levi Richard’s “Being Used” is far from just a fragment—it’s a standout piece worthy of attention. This isn’t your typical upbeat track; instead, it offers a refreshing glimpse into the heart of organic music creation. To borrow a phrase from Yoda, “there is another,” and Levi Richard is a promising new voice in the music scene.
In early February, I backed up Dillon Ryan at Saint John’s Haven Music Hall & Cafe. The show also featured performances by the Zack Ingles Band, and Levi Richard. At just 14 years old, Richard’s performance revealed a depth and musicality that belies his age. Influenced by artists like Phoebe Bridgers and Mumford & Sons, Levi’s set was confident and engaging, with the audience responding warmly to his heartfelt delivery. “I’ve been dreaming of playing here for months,” he shared between songs. While his set included mostly covers, his original song “Being Used” left a lasting impression. I’m thrilled that a recorded version of the song is now available on streaming platforms as of March 20th.
Produced, mixed, engineered, and mastered by Zack Ingles, “Being Used” showcases Levi Richard’s maturity and insight. The song explores themes of broken trust and lost friendship, evoking powerful emotions that resonate with listeners. The instrumentation is intentionally simple, allowing the song’s message to shine through. Levi plays for the song, not for show, a lesson many seasoned musicians could learn from. Notably, he recorded all the live instrumentation himself—a remarkable feat for someone so young.
I later spoke with Levi about his musical journey and the release of his single. Like Ingles, Levi hails from Hampton, NB, and grew up in a musical family. He cites Phil Babineau, Jacob Chevarie, and Ingles as major influences, expressing gratitude for their support and mentorship. Levi feels comfortable with the recording process, a challenge for many young artists. He regularly participates in open mic nights at Rothesay’s Foghorn Brewing and enjoys collaborating with fellow musicians, though he has no immediate plans to form a band.
Levi Richard’s single fills me with optimism for the future of music. At an age when peer pressure is formidable, he remains true to himself and his artistry. I admire his wisdom and authenticity, qualities I lacked in my early teens. Count me as a fan, Levi—I eagerly anticipate where your musical journey will lead you!
Photo Credit: Ollie LeBlanc
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!
