The singer, actor, guitarist, and composer Kyle Riabko discusses his new album Richard Rodgers Reimagined, the music of Rodgers, performing on Broadway, and more, with Joseph Planta.

Text of introduction by Joseph Planta:

I am Planta: On the Line, in Vancouver, at TheCommentary.ca.

Kyle Riabko joins me now. The singer, actor, guitarist and composer has just released a new album, Richard Rodgers Reimagined. It’s a great collection of twelve Richard Rodgers songs that highlight the durability and timelessness of his music, as well as the charm and modern sensibilities of Mr. Riabko, who does the vocal and instrumentation himself. Whether it’s My Funny Valentine, My Favourite Things, Oh, What a Beautiful Morning, or Some Enchanted Evening, Kyle’s pop/rock sensibilities infuse the songs with a contemporary spin that make the performances something new and enjoyable for the listener. I’ll get Mr. Riabko to tell us about this album, the music of Rodgers, and his career thus far. Kyle Riabko has starred in the Broadway productions of Spring Awakening and Hair. He has already release a full length album of original music. He has appeared as an opening act for such artists as BB King, James Brown, John Mayer, Buddy Guy, Maroon 5, and many others. He has appeared on television and film, and created and starred in a show, Close to You: Bacharach Reimagined, which was nominated for many awards Off-Broadway. And which Burt Bacharach said that Kyle had “done something truly unique with my music,” and that “he’s a beautiful singer, and one hell of a guitar player.” I’ll also get Kyle to tell us about how he came to do this album and the connection with Bacharach. The album is out now from Ghostlight Records. www.kyleriabko.com is the website for more. Please welcome to the Planta: On the Line program, in Los Angeles today, Kyle Riabko; Mr. Riabko, good morning.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (17.2MB)

Subscribe: RSS