“Tremendous,” “doesn’t copy but builds and expands,” and “a force to be reckoned with” are just some of the phrases often used to describe Riccardo Grosso.

The Italian-born singer and harmonica player defies easy categorization, breaking free from expected clichés. Riccardo is, above all, a musician—one who refuses to be boxed into a single genre: that is the vision of Riccardo Grosso Band.

“Blues is my foundation,” Riccardo explains, “and I’ve been listening to it since I can remember. But I don’t want to be the next imitator, sticking to records note for note. My goal with my music is to deliver the missing soundtrack of your life—and mine. I love Muddy Waters as much as I love Tom Waits. I listen to The Clash just as often as the Preservation Hall Jazz Band. I enjoy Gil Scott-Heron, Junior Wells, Bob Dylan, and even Henry Mancini. I don’t feel comfortable being confined to a strict label that cages me as an artist. I know where I want my music to sound, but don’t put a label on me.”

This vision shapes the Riccardo Grosso Band’s mission: to create music that touches hearts and souls. Achieving that requires authenticity, hard work, and, as comedian Bill Hicks famously said, “playing it from your f*****g heart.”

The band’s sound resonates with echoes of Ford Brothers, blends influences from Grosso’s diverse inspirations, and channels a “bluesy spirit” that infuses both their performances and songwriting. However, don’t expect lazy shuffles or uninspired renditions of blues standards. “Playing bad versions of blues hits as modern-day blackface acts is disrespectful,” Riccardo asserts. “It disrespects the music, the legacy of great artists, and—just as importantly—our audience. Fans appreciate us because they feel we’re authentic and respect them.”

Riccardo found his musical partner-in-crime in Flavio Paludetti, a guitarist hailed as “one of the strongest aces on the continent.” Together, they deliver uncompromising shows with the highest musical quality. With hundreds of gigs under their belts, from intimate clubs to massive festivals, the Riccardo Grosso Band has cemented its place as a live music powerhouse. In a time when live performance is often undervalued, this quartet proves its undeniable relevance.

Today in the band – along with Riccardo Grosso and Flavio Paludetti – you can enjoy a strong groove foundation made possible by Lorenzo Miatto on bass and Carmine Bloisi on drums.