We were lucky to catch up with Arick Ridgell recently and have shared our conversation below.

Arick , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

In my current journey, I am embarking on a path that many artists and producers say they’re on but rarely ever actually complete. I am working on a transparent album concerning my journey dealing with PTSD and anxiety. In 2019, I was involved in a hit and run accident with a drunk driver that completely damaged my car, but more so my mental health. So after talking to family and a couple of therapist, I decided to make an album about my journey both professionally and personally. I see this as a risk because of the current state of music. Right now there’s so much focus on superficial things and drama. Love and positivity often get pushed to the side so this will undoubtedly be an interesting time to see how people will respond to this project.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am a 33 year old Kansas City, MO native. I have been producing and writing songs professionally since I was 21. I got into the industry being inspired by my older cousins who have had success in the industry themselves. My cousin Titus “T.J. Hooker” Johnson is what I call a man of many hats as he has many placements (as a producer and songwriter), musician tours, and other accolades to his credit. My cousin Dwain Whitmore Jr. is a very accomplished songwriter and vocal producer. Seeing their success inspired me to use my talents to make life changing music for the listeners that my music encounters. I provide music production, engineering, and songwriting services for artists and companies in need of quality music and sound. I think the main quality that sets me apart is my love for multiple different genres. That quality allows me to be comfortable in different rooms no matter the style of music. I am most proud of my dedication to producing quality work for those who are gracious enough to trust me with their visions and dreams.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is being part of the shaping of what the generations after me will get to listen to. Yes the mainstream music will always have its power, but the use of certain platforms will also give the generations of the future the ability to be introduced to all kinds of art and music.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

I think non-creatives sometimes fail to see that we are humans. As much as some of us appreciate the admiration, there’s also the reality that we go through life just anyone else. My journey specifically is tough to explain at times because so many people that I come across believe that creating an album surrounding mental health should be easy. It actually has been very hard due to the fact that this album is how I am healing. Non-creatives must know that it takes time, sacrifice, and mental energy to create the art that they love and support.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tdotadot816/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/TdotAdot816
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvpDe2-6pL10egvI05Njsbg