RIKKA Z BIO

If you ask her family what her first words were as a child, they’d tell you that Rikka Zimmerman didn’t start out speaking like the rest of the kids, she started out singing. Born and raised in the country town of Ojai, California, Rikka was immersed in music from the beginning. With family roots in both country and classical, Rikka developed an appreciation for diverse music early on. Surrounded by banjos, saws, fiddles and guitars, it was only a matter of time before Rikka honed in on her instrument of choice, a selection which didn’t surprise anyone who knew Rikka; her voice.

Whether she was performing in the church choir, a school talent show, or simply for her family and friends, at the age of just five years old, Rikka was already celebrated locally as a gifted singer and musical artist. And years later, the celebration continues.

Known today as Rikka Z, her debut EP entitled Cowboy Nights has exploded onto the music scene. Rikka Z has developed her own California girl meets Nashville country sound which she has coined coastal country. The one comment spoken most from listeners is “I don’t even listen to country music but I love this!” This innovative artistic sound has expanded the country market and is being touted by industry veterans. In a review for Cowboy Nights Greg Penny, former producer for Elton John and K.D. Lang, described Rikka Z as ready to roll, “A west coast trend on its way, Rikka Z is a fresh ocean breeze soon to carry across the states. A classic country sound with a new story.”

Rikka Z’s music can arouse the heaviest feet to move and the driest eyes to moisten and will never lack emotion. Her songs stories range from the thrill of a girl sneaking out on a hot summer night to find adventure in her cowboy’s arms, to a nostalgic married couple trying to find their way back to a Room Full of Romance. In delivering her witty lyrics, Rikka Z highlights her rich vocal talent while making brilliant use of traditional country.

Rikka Z’s inherent gift for singing and songwriting is palpable, her energy is infectious, and her music is soulful and timeless. And with her debut EP already on the scene, Rikka Z, is ready “to run, to fly, to touch the southern sky.”