Richard Lynch: Honoring Tradition, Championing Veterans, and Staying True to Country Roots
In the world of country music, Richard Lynch stands out as a torchbearer for traditional sounds and storytelling. With his latest projects, including the heartfelt cover album “Pulling Up the Covers” and the much-anticipated “Some Days are Better than Others”, Lynch showcases both reverence for the genre’s classics and his own introspective songwriting. In this candid interview, he shares the inspirations behind his music, his thoughts on the role of politics in art, and the impact of his Keepin’ It Country Farm and Love Tattoo Foundation. With an unyielding commitment to his roots, Lynch offers a refreshing perspective on what it means to be a country artist today.
Q: “Pulling Up the Covers” is a unique project where you cover classic country hits. What inspired you to take on this album, and how did you choose which songs to include?
A: I decided to do “Pulling Up the Covers,” because I had several Nashville studio recorded albums to show my credibility, and I wanted to show respect for my favorite songs and artists from when I was child, until today. I took my favorite 14 artists and recorded my favorite songs of theirs.
Q: Your upcoming album, “Some Days are Better than Others,” is generating a lot of excitement. Can you give us a sneak peek into what fans can expect from this new release?
A: I wear my heart on my sleeve, and I write songs that have been my inspirations. This album is a true look into my soul. There is a lot of nostalgia and heart-felt tributes in these songs.
Q: You’ve never been shy about sharing your political views, especially with your song “God and Trump,” which stirred some controversy. How do you feel about mixing politics with your music, and how has the reaction from your fans influenced your stance?
A: One day I’m going to meet my maker, and he is going to ask me, “What did you do with this talent I gave you, and how did you use it to help your country?” And I will say, “I gave my honest opinion about Donald Trump, who I feel will save the country.” Most of my fans have been very appreciative, and a lot of folks have been very fervent about the statement the song makes.
Q: Country music has a strong tradition of storytelling and reflecting the times. Do you feel any responsibility as an artist to use your platform to comment on political or social issues?
A: Only if it touches my heart.
Q: Your Keepin’ It Country Farm has become a special venue for live music. What’s the story behind creating this space, and how does it align with your passion for keeping traditional country music alive?
A: The farm, and in particular the barn, was created to keep my passion for traditional country music alive, as we saw there wasn’t much of an outlet for traditional country music, with the way mainstream country music is played today.
Q: Through the Love Tattoo Foundation, you’re dedicated to supporting veterans. Can you share more about the work the foundation does and why this cause is so close to your heart?
A: I have the utmost respect and appreciation for our veterans who have sacrificed so much for us and our country. And nobody is more deserving of the support and appreciation we try to show them. We support local and regional veteran causes by bringing awareness to their activities. We make monetary donations to various veteran organizations each year.
Q: Many of your songs reflect a deep connection to your roots and a love for traditional country. How do you stay true to that sound while still appealing to modern country audiences?
A: I don’t try to appeal to modern country audiences, but to the audiences I have, I really connect to my music so there must be a need and demand for traditional country music.
Q: As someone who balances being an artist, venue owner, and philanthropist, how do you manage to juggle all these roles? What’s your driving force behind everything you do?
A: My wife believes me and manages me and juggles all these roles. We make a great team.