DANNY J RICARDO
Guitarist - Producer - Creator
Danny J Ricardo, a.k.a. 'Danny J', is a Toronto native who started his Rock n' Roll journey at the age of 13. Whether he's sharing the stage with legends or playing in a rock n' roll dive, he always performs as if it were his last.
Danny studied Jazz in Toronto's Humber College and Audio Engineering at Trebas Institute. Upon graduating, Danny quickly made a reputation for himself, not only as a guitarist but a composer as well. In 2004, Danny collaborated with actress/singer Cassie Steele, known for her role as “Abby” on CTV’s The L.A. Complex and as “Manny” on the hit show Degrassi The Next Generation. The debut album "How Much for Happy" had a cross Canada tour in support of singer Keshia Chante. In 2006 it was featured during Canadian Music week. The album is certified gold in Canada and available on iTunes.
In 2009 'JUSTUS', one of Danny’s long time music projects came to fruition. In February of 2010, JUSTUS won 1st prize in a band contest called “4 The Rekord”. In April of that year, they also qualified for TIMA, the Toronto Independent Music Awards for “Best Live Act”. 2011 they hit the studio with producer/engineer Joel Kazmi (Sum 41) and released their debut EP “Don’t Surrender” in May of 2012. “Back In” the bands single off the EP was received extremely well by fans and was featured on CBC radio. Q107’S Dominik Diamond says “JUSTUS...good band, good tunes and great musicians”. Don’t Surrender EP is available on iTunes and HMV retailers. It currently has a 5/5 rating on iTunes and “Circles End” is the bands current #1 best seller.
In 2010, Danny was asked by Canadian rock royalty Lawrence Gowan (Styx), to be a part of his legendary solo band GOWAN. Also on the roster are Todd Sucherman (Styx) Taylor Mills (Brian Wilson) Peter Nunn (Honeymoon Suite) and Terrence Gowan (Gowan). In May of 2010 Gowan performed two sold out shows celebrating the 25th year anniversary of the multi platinum album “Strange Animal”. In March of 2011, GOWAN went back on the road to support the re-released hit album “Return of The Strange Animal”. In 2012 Gowan celebrated another milestone with the 25th anniversary of yet another hit album “Great Dirty World”. Moon Light Desires live show, hit the road in March of that year and ended in July with 3 sold out shows at Fallsview Casino in Niagara Falls.
October 2013 GOWAN traded his strange animal garbs for a kilt. 'Gowan in Kilt Tonight' was held at Glenn Gould Studio Theatre in Toronto. This performance featured Gowan solo. Proceeds of the live recording go to the McDermott House of Canada. In December Gowan also managed to give a helping hand performing in a benefit show for victims that were hit by the devastating typhoon in the Philippines’. Progressive Rock band SAGA known for hits like "On the loose" and "Wind him up" also performed that night.
Bio
2013 took Danny back to his family’s roots. Karma Band(a) is a group that plays primarily corporate functions in the Portuguese community. From traditional polka to waltz, tango, flamenco, bossa nova, samba, dance, disco, contemporary, country and even classic rock. Karma Band ended the year sharing the stage with Portuguese legend Jose Malhoa as they brought in the New Year.
2014 calendar year is proving to be a busy one for Karma Band. Booking dates that'll take them straight through till next year.
2014 Danny started work on a new collaboration with Toronto soul tress 'Ayah', best known for her work with 'DJ Jazzy Jeff' (Will Smith). 'Merna Killed Ayah' is currently is working on new music. Realease and tour dates will be anounced throughout 2014/2015.
Off stage Danny has established himself as a proficient Guitar Instructor. With his no nonsense easy going approach to music he’s found a successful formula. From teaching in high schools, rock camps or one on one master classes’ he’s helped and inspired his students achieve their goals. Phil Radu Berklee College of Music graduate and his band Beyond The Sun. Warner Music recording artist & Juno nominated Courage My Love; Mercedes Arn-Horn. Diego Gomes YTV’s The Next Star winner 2010 and Atlantic recording artist Francesco Yates are just some of the students Danny’s taught.
Danny J Ricardo is constantly pushing himself forward as musician; happy but never satisfied. He mastered the guitar in five years but it’s taking him a life time to learn it.