Rizz & The Believerz is a new group led by the enigmatic artist Rizz, as backed by members of Tesla (former drummer Troy Luccketta, who founded this collective), Lynyrd Skynyrd (keyboardist Peter Keys), Whitesnake (bassist Michael Devin), and Lou Gramm’s solo band (guitarist Michael Staretow). Released a few days back was the group’s debut single, “Don’t Stop Tryin’,” which demonstrates an intricate blend of rock, reggae and hip-hop influences. The lyrics and melodies provide a beacon of hope, reminding listeners that they possess the innate power to shape their destinies.
Last year, Rizz & The Believerz traveled to Kingston, Jamaica at the invitation of Wilburn “Squidly” Cole –son of Ska legend StrangeJah Cole and nephew of Donald “Tabby Diamond” Shaw — where they had an extra special opportunity to record for a week at Bob Marley’s legendary Tuff Gong Studio. During that time, they recorded and filmed a live acoustic version of “Don’t Stop Tryin” with Troy Lucketta and Wilburn “Squidly” Cole on congas, John Salaway on guitar with Rizz on vocals which can be seen via the band’s YouTube page.
In March 2024, prior to the release of “Don’t Stop Tryin’,” I had the pleasure of speaking with Rizz — a native of Reno, Nevada — via Zoom, as embedded above and airing via the Long Beach, New York-based Paltrocast With Darren Paltrowitz televsion series. Beyond “Don’t Stop Tryin’,” we talked about how the band came together, Luccketta’s history with reggae, Tesla’s tour with David Lee Roth, and future projects.