Ricochet among Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame inductees

The Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame (OMHOF) in Muskogee has announced the 2023 inductees who will be honored at a ceremony and concert at the Muskogee Civic Center on Saturday, Feb. 17.

According to a press release issued by OMHOF, this past year’s class of honorees is made up of varying styles of music that includes country singers, a beloved Nashville songwriter, one of Oklahoma’s most well-respected music educators, world-renowned concert pianist who is also a major conductor and composer, renowned touring and featured fiddle player as well as long-time music promoter and record label manager.

Among the 2023 class of inductees is the country super group, Ricochet.

In 1996, the members of Ricochet watched their debut single, “What Do I Know,” rise to the Top 5, earning the band the honor of the highest charting debut single of the year.

The group’s follow-up single release, “Daddy’s Money,” rose to No. 1 on the Radio & Records Country Singles Chart, the Gavin Country Singles Chart and the Billboard Country Singles Chart, where it stayed No. 1 for two consecutive weeks. The band’s distinctive musical style and intricate harmonies earned them recognition as one of the most popular vocal groups in country music, a mantle they still wear today. Now, more than 15 years later, “ The Hardest Working Band In Country Music” is still going strong.

Ricochet’s members consist of Vian graduate, Heath Wright, on lead vocals, guitar and fiddle; Chris Hempfling on drums and vocals; Larry Hight on steel, electric and acoustic guitar, saxophone and vocals; Bruce Bennett on bass and vocals; and Rick Toops on keyboards and vocals.

Ricochet is also the only country band to ever chart our country’s National Anthem and is in constant demand to perform it live.

Also being inducted are country music artist, producer and songwriter, Bryan White; pianist, conductor and composer, Timothy Long; prolific songwriter, Verlon Thompson; music educator, Jerry Huffer; 15 year member of the Roy Clark Band, Shelby Eicher; and Governor’s Award recipient, David Webb, music promotor and booking agent.

‘I am so excited to see the great musical diversity in this year’s Hall of Fame inductees. From singer/songwriters to respected educators, to concert pianists, this class of inductees will long be remembered for what they have contributed to the world of music. All coming out of Oklahoma proving once again that Oklahoma is a true music capital,” OMHOF Director Tony Corbell said.

The Muskogee Civic Center is located at 425 Boston Street in Muskogee. Tickets for the event can be purchased by calling 918-687-0800.

For information about the show and OMHOF, visit omhof.com.