Exclusive Interview: Ricky Leroy Brown Talks Raw Heartbreak, Guitar Truths, and the Fire Behind The Redhead Blues

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Ricky Leroy Brown isn’t your average blues artist—and The Redhead Blues isn’t just another heartbreak anthem. The Madrid-based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist just dropped his gripping new single as part of a 4-track EP titled ACEDIA, released March 31, 2025. With a gritty guitar tone, unapologetically honest lyrics, and zero studio polish, Brown delivers a soul-punch of emotion that’s both timeless and refreshingly real.

We sat down with Ricky Leroy Brown to unpack the layers behind The Redhead Blues, dive into his creative process, and get the scoop on what’s coming next.

Interview with Ricky Leroy Brown

Let’s talk about “The Redhead Blues”—it’s such an emotionally raw and powerful track. What was going through your mind when you first sat down to write it?

Ricky: I always wanted to write a break-up song for the punks and rockers out there. No autotune bullshit, no nice melodies—just pure and raw energy. Because break-ups are not always like the movies…

You played every instrument and recorded all the vocals yourself for this track. What draws you to take such a hands-on approach to your music?

Ricky: Over the years, I had to establish certain ideas or mantras for each instrument. For example: the bass should always be played “cool” and calm no matter what. The guitar should always be able to scream, even without any gain on it, etc.

There’s a clear influence from legends like Prince and Albert King in your sound—how have those artists shaped your musical identity over the years?

Ricky: It’s the dirt of King and the guitar of Prince that make my jaw drop every time I listen to them. I’m not trying to replicate them—but I’m trying to make them proud, so to say.

The song dives deep into personal heartbreak. Was it difficult to be that vulnerable in your lyrics, or did the pain make the writing flow more naturally?

Ricky: The joke is, I wasn’t the victim in this break-up for a long time. But when it did turn the other way, I was devastated and angry. I tried to stay calm, but certain people know how to push my buttons.

From Madrid to the world—how has your environment and Spanish roots influenced your sound, even when you’re diving into classic blues and soul territory?

Ricky: Blues is and always will be the music of the men before. We all have it in ourselves. The hard part is to let loose and go back to the roots of music without faking it—and I think you can only achieve that if you are 100% honest with yourself.

This release feels like a real turning point. How does “The Redhead Blues” compare to your previous work in terms of sound, style, and emotional weight?

Ricky: It’s much more simple. Before ACEDIA and that blues, I was always trying to “catch” something—but this time, I just ranted, cried, and lived purely for the melodies in my songs.

You’ve clearly put your heart into this project. What was the most challenging part of creating “The Redhead Blues”—and what was the most cathartic?

Ricky: To be honest, the production went smoothly and without big troubles. I had ALL the parts in my head already—and my producer Oli works quick and easy. That made it flow.

You’ve got such a distinct sound. Are there any unexpected genres or influences you’d love to explore in future releases?

Ricky: The longer I do music, the more I realize how hard gospel or soul would be for me to master. So that clearly is the next challenge.

Beyond the music, the accompanying video also tells a strong visual story. How involved were you in the visual direction, and what did you want to communicate through it?

Ricky: My best man Flavian Schwitter (CAONA the Game) and I always try to get the best out of a small budget. This clip, however, didn’t need more budget. It was clear from the start that this song should focus on lyrics and not visuals.

Now that “The Redhead Blues” is out in the world, what’s next for Ricky Leroy Brown? More music, live shows, collaborations? What can fans look forward to?

Ricky: There is a really big change for me coming this summer. I’ll start working with a new producer, Carlos Heredia, who did a fantastic job with the Madrid band MUXU. I’m really looking forward to it.