Tribute to Ned

Richo Richardson will perform Soul to Keep at the Maleny Hotel on 24 November.

Shell Le Vesconte

In the dusty journal of country music history, Soul To Keep emerges as a blazing star in Richo Richardson’s musical constellation. This monumental track, the first single release from his album, Lonesome Cowboy, takes us on a gripping journey through the lives of outlaws, lonesome cowboys, and hearts torn asunder.

Soul To Keep doesn’t just hit the mark—it shatters it, leaving an indelible mark on the listener’s soul. The song unfolds with the weight of history, sharing the tales of notorious outlaw Ned Kelly and the lingering echoes of his indomitable spirit.

From the very first note, you can sense the approach of a gun-slinger, and as the music builds, the ghost of an Australian bushranger wanders into the scene.

Richo Richardson’s velvety, melodic vocals become the storyteller’s voice, expertly weaving the macabre gospel of Ned Kelly’s life and legacy. His performance is enriched by the impeccable musicianship of Craig Morgan from Evertone Studios, who adds a haunting depth to this lyrical tale.

The genesis of Soul To Keep is a story in itself. When Kelly Cork wrote this song, he put down his pen and said, “this one’s for Richo“, and indeed, the result is a testament to their shared artistic vision. Soul To Keep now stands proudly among Richo Richardson’s collection of homegrown hits on the Lonesome Cowboy album. This song is not merely a musical experience; it’s a journey through time, a sonic adventure through the rugged terrains of the Australian outback, and a profound exploration of the human spirit.

Soul To Keep invites listeners to immerse themselves in the world of outlaws and cowboys, where the legacy of figures like Ned Kelly lives on through the power of music. In Soul To Keep, Richo Richardson has truly found his voice, and when playing live with The Home Grown Killers at his side, he delivers an unforgettable performance that captures the essence of country storytelling at its finest.

This is a musical chapter and a lyrical journey that should not be missed. Maleny Hotel, 7pm, 24 November.