By day, New York City-based Rick Kennell provides financial advice to folks in the music industry via his indieFINANCIALnetwork. Much of his expertise in the music business comes from hard-earned experience, most notably as bassist for the renowned progressive rock band Happy the Man (their 1977 debut was named one of the top 50 prog albums of all time by Rolling Stone magazine). Rick remains active in music projects, including albums by his wife, Leah Waybright. He’s also busy in his new studio providing bass and drum parts for the ever-expanding Pedal Giant Animals, which features core members from Happy the Man.
Based around an iMac, a Logic DAW, and a Universal Audio DUO interface, Rick’s updated studio allows him to get maximum impact and flexibility without having to rely on racks of outboard gear. When he decided his hardware-heavy previous setup wasn’t up to snuff, he “decided to go all virtual,” using MOTU Mach 5 for samples. Rick also keeps a stable of nearly 20 medium-scale basses, most custom-made or modded. Rick points to his prized PRS. “I have Paul Reed Smith #11, which was built by Paul himself. It’s been written up in Vintage Guitar magazine.”
Rick’s relationship with Sweetwater goes back to the early days of the company. Originally from Fort Wayne, Rick visits his former hometown whenever he can — and he considers Sales Engineer Kenny Bergle more than just a trusted resource. “Kenny is not only that, but he’s been my good friend for a number of years. Whenever I need anything, I call him.”
Looking ahead, Rick is excited about the prospect of working on new projects in new ways, including remote collaboration. Because his former and present collaborators are so far flung, it’s a necessity. “Happy the Man has always been a grand experiment, and I think the process of us being able to track in our own studios will present a lot of opportunities.”
Find out more about Rick Kennell at everythinghappytheman.com.