Today we’d like to introduce you to Rich (Mr. Singer) Singer.
Hi Rich (Mr. Singer), so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I have always loved music and working with children, together they make a kind of magic. When I was a teenager, I babysat my neighbor’s child and sold my small motorcycle to buy my first real guitar, an American Fender Telecaster. My mom saw something in me back then and told me I would be great working with kids, and she was right.
I studied Music and Sound Recording at Columbia College Chicago. During that time, I interned at a recording studio and started working as a live sound engineer. I eventually moved to San Francisco and had the thrill of running sound for some of my musical heroes including Jimmy Cliff, CCR, and the Beach Boys. As exciting as that was, I realized I wanted to make music myself and connect with people more directly.
When I returned to Chicago, I heard about an opening for a music teacher at a kindergarten. From the very first day, I knew I had found my calling. The kids loved it, I loved it, and it just clicked. I began writing and recording songs with them, and one opportunity led to another until it became my full-time work. What started in one classroom grew into Mr. Singer and the Sharp Cookies, a joyful family music project that has filled classrooms, libraries, and festivals for more than twenty years.
Now based in Nashville, I bring that same joy to schools, libraries, festivals, and birthday parties. My goal is simple, to help kids and parents laugh, sing, dance, and feel connected through music.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has been a beautiful journey, but not always a smooth one. Building a life in music comes with plenty of ups and downs, and there were many times I had to find creative ways to keep going. Early on, I learned to do almost everything myself, from writing and recording to booking and promoting. I loved the work, but balancing the creative and business sides was a constant challenge.
After years of success performing in Chicago, I moved to Nashville to begin a new chapter. It was exciting and humbling to start again in a new city while preparing to become a father. Like many independent artists, I have had to balance passion with practicality, and there were times when money was tight or opportunities were uncertain.
Through it all, the music and the children always pulled me forward. Seeing kids light up when we sing together keeps me inspired through every challenge.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a Nashville-based children’s musician and educator who creates joyful, interactive music experiences for kids and families. Under the name Mr. Singer or with my band Mr. Singer and the Sharp Cookies, I specialize in lively shows where everyone sings, dances, and plays together. Each performance mixes original songs and family favorites with rhythm instruments that get everyone moving and engaged.
I am known for bringing warmth, humor, and professionalism to every event. Whether performing at a school, library, festival, or backyard party, my goal is always to connect with kids in a real and joyful way and to leave parents smiling too. Over the years, I have performed thousands of shows, including the Lollapalooza Kidsapalooza Stage in Chicago, and I now bring that same energy to families and organizations across Tennessee.
I am most proud of how my music builds community. I have seen it turn a room full of strangers into friends singing together. What sets me apart is the combination of experience, understanding of children, and genuine love for what I do. I write and record all my own material and approach every show with the goal of creating lasting memories for kids and families.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
Some of my favorite childhood memories are from my grandpa’s farm outside of Wooster, Ohio. My dad, my brothers, and I would spend hours riding motorcycles through the woods, creeks, orchards, and open fields. The smell of hay, the sound of the engines, and the feeling of freedom were pure joy and family connection.
Another memory that shaped me was learning guitar from my older brother Joey. He was patient and passionate, and those first few chords changed my life. Joey sparked my love for music and set me on the path that became my career. I still feel gratitude for him every time I pick up my guitar, and I try to pass on that same encouragement and discovery to the kids I teach and perform for today. With my first child on the way, I cannot wait to create happy, musical childhood memories with my son.
Pricing:
- Solo Mr. Singer: $275 for a 45-minute show
- Duo Mr. Singer & Amanda Healan on upright bass and harmonies: $425 for a 45-minute show
- Full band Mr. Singer & the Sharp Cookies show (3–4 musicians): $600–$800 for a 45-minute show ideal for festivals and large community events
- Discounts may be available for schools, libraries, and multiple bookings on the same day
Contact Info:
- Website: www.mrsinger.rocks
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrsingerrocks/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/singercookies/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUPhrifc0Xg
- soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/mr-singer-1
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2cNEUfwTvDZy45RQYjDlHv
Image Credits
the last three party photos please credit Tori Mortimer Photography
