Our Artists

Richard 'Ricky' Palmer

Based in Portsmouth, UK, Richard “Ricky” Palmer is a passionate singer, songwriter and performer creating an electrifying blend of pop, reggae, rock, country and musical theatre.

Through the ever-evolving Shine4U Project, Ricky collaborates with an exciting network of musicians and artists from Portsmouth, across the UK and around the world. Every performance brings a fresh combination of talent, energy and creativity.

Now, Ricky is ready to return to the stage, bringing his new material and much-loved back catalogue to life. With nine tracks already released through Shine4U Records, anticipation is building for his debut album, Back from Hibernation—a bold new chapter packed with emotion, originality and unforgettable music.

Away from the spotlight, Ricky is a dedicated freelance locum Advanced Nurse Practitioner and Respiratory Nurse Specialist. Since qualifying in 2000, he has built a rewarding career supporting patients and communities throughout Hampshire.

Latest release:

Richard ‘Ricky’ Palmer has announced the release of his new single, 'These Boots Are Made For Stomping', based on the original Nancy Sinatra sixties classic. The track has been re-imagined by the Portsmouth based singer-songwriter, who has created a lively Ska version, giving the song a fresh feel for the 21st Century.

This new single is released by Shine4U Records and distributed worldwide by Horus Music. The song was recorded at Mayfield Studios.

Release date 9th August 2024. Available on all major digital platforms.

Current Projects:

Richard ‘Ricky’ Palmer is currently collaborating with local musicians on a project to produce a song for World Mental Health Day 2024. The song chosen is ‘Lean on me’ (originally by Bill Withers) which will be given a rocksteady-reggae rhythm, which will give the song a whole new feel.

Upcoming releases:

These boots are made for Stomping – a cover of Nancy Sinatra’s ‘These boots are made for walking.’ The song has been given a makeover and turned into a Ska track.
Diamonds – a cover of the 1963 instrumental by Jet Harris and Tony Meehan. Lyrics have been written by Richard ‘Ricky’ Palmer – giving the track a whole new lease of life.
You’ve got a friend – a cover of the Carole King song. The track features The Shine4U Project. It is hoped the song will be released to support our local hospital charity.

In the pipeline:

Stand by me (Skank by me) – a reggae version of the Ben E. King track. Featuring a ‘riddim’ by Stuart MightyZ Inglis.
Waiting on a miracle – A cover of the track from Disney’s Encanto. Originally the song had a female vocal, Richard ‘Ricky’ Palmer has updated the song with his male vocal.
Poison Ivy – Updated version of the track which was originally recorded by the Coasters in 1959. The Lambrettas also had a hit with the song in 1980. This new version features saxophonist Lin Taylor.
Help me make it through the night (Reggae version of Gladys Night song).
Say hello wave goodbye – a cover of the song by Soft Cell. Given a Rocksteady Reggae Rhythm.
A million dreams (from The Greatest Showman). This version features Richard ‘Ricky’ Palmer, and a debut from his cousin, 11 year old Eloise.
Constant – an original song by Richard ‘Ricky’ Palmer, highlighting the issues of his journey through the minefield of mental health.

Discography:

See Releases.