Tireless bassist, musical director and bandleader tells how he’s able to accomplish so much

Exclusive video interview with FBPO’s Jon Liebman
December 16, 2015

Born in Monroe, Louisiana, Rickey Minor grew up in South Central Los Angeles, where he took to music at an early age.  As a young boy, Rickey would perform with neighborhood kids, singing and playing bass.  The experience gave his career an incredible head start.

After getting the gig with Gladys Knight at the age of 19, upon the recommendation of bassist Nathan East, Minor’s career quickly went into high gear, as he became increasingly busy as a working musician.

Perhaps best known as musical director and bandleader for The Tonight Show With Jay Leno, Rickey has also served as musical director for several music superstars, including Whitney Houston, Christina Aguilera, Alicia Keys and Beyoncé, as well as major television productions, including the Grammy Awards, the NAACP Image Awards, the Super Bowl and American Idol.

FBPO’s Jon Liebman paid a visit to Rickey’s fabulous Red Lotus Studios in Hollywood recently to discuss the music business, Rickey’s career and, of course, bass.

Watch our interview with Rickey!

Part One: The early days to Gladys Knight, Whitney Houston and Jay Leno

Part Two:  On being the musical director for the Oscar’s Governor’s Awards
and Kennedy Center Honors, plus all about his beloved Ken Smith basses!