Dick Russom
ALL PROCEEDS FROM THE SALE OF DICK RUSSOM'S SONGS & CD'S WILL GO TO THE RELIEF EFFORT IN NEW ORLEANS...A PLACE & MUSIC, MY DAD LOVED!

Dick Russom - January 2, 1915 - June 4, 2004
Truly a master of his art, Dick Russom had over 3000 songs committed to memory...covering music from the forties through the eighties. When Jazz was needed, he played with the best. If Classical was the call, he shifted gears in complete confidence. He died at home on June 4th of 2004, but his music lives on forever through his Spirit, and the lives he continues to touch.
Why this name?
He was nick-named the 'Night Owl' at one point of his career...because of his late night radio work!!
Do you play live?
He played all over the world, but played mostly at various nightclubs in and around Los Angeles.
How, do you think, does the internet (or mp3) change the music industry?
He believed that artists deserved more freedom of expression!
Would you sign a record contract with a major label?
He was signed with MCA at one point in his career!
Band History:
As might be expected, Dick Russom naturally found his home in Hollywood. Quickly signed by MCA, he became part of a dynamic and successful piano team, scoring and performing for motion pictures. Maturity led to mastery as Russom played the elegant nightclubs, among them the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel and the Sheraton Universal Hotel. He soon became a favorite of columnists Louella Parsons and Stan Delaplane, who sprinkled the papers with compliments. On the Sunset Strip, Russom accompanied Maxine Sullivan and Dick Haymes. At Gatsby's, the perfect mood created by Russom drew Helen Reddy, Vic Damone, Shirley Jones, Carroll O'Connor and many other celebrities to his piano to sing.

Your influences?
My Father's influences were many, but he loved George Shearing, Dave Brubeck & Count Basie!
Favorite spot?
He was able to visit Yellowstone, with my Brother John later in his life, which he loved!
Equipment used:
He used accoustic Yamaha Grand Piano w/some MIDI & effects! He also played combo using a Yamaha Electric, which I used to compose 'Morning', and he used a Yamaha V50 Synth in later years w/ a computer!
Anything else...?
As soon as you hear the music, you know that the pianist is no ordinary man. A descendent of the famous L'Amoreaux family of France, Dick Russom's mother started teaching him piano when he was just 4. Barely a teenager, he was performing professionally. By 16, he had his own orchestra that consistently captivated audiences in Detroit. Eventually recruited by the Bob Chester Orchestra, he played across the Midwest on the MCA circuit.Military Service called Russom away to be a Navigator for T.W.A. (ICD). Wherever the plane landed, be it Newfoundland, Greenland, Iceland, Scotland, Paris, or Casablanca, Dick could be found at the nearest piano, playing for the servicemen.

The music you hear from the 'By Request' CD, could not have been possible without the support of my Brother-In-Law & Engineer, Don Matusek! He has always supported, and helped me keep Hornhead Production & Studio up and running!