Richard ‘Rich’ E. O’Brien was born in Anderson, Missouri on July 12, 1954 (died 2 Oct. 2023), one of 10 children born to Tom and Gracie (Armstrong) O’Brien. He graduated from McDonald County High School in Anderson and then attended Texas Christian University in Ft Worth, majoring in Western American History.
Rich began playing the guitar when he was 6 years old. He was an artist of extraordinary versatility. His mother Gracie was a Carter Family style guitar player herself and fostered his love of music. His ability to use the entire fretboard of the guitar was a gift from his brother Paul, whom Rich once described as ‘the best guitar player in the family.’
Leaving home with less than ten dollars in his pocket and a vague promise of a prison guard job, Rich headed for Texas. There, he quickly fit in with the local music scene, playing with the likes of Red Steagall and touring with other country stars such as Moe Bandy, Gene Watson and Ray Price.
He was inducted into the Western Swing Society’s Hall of Fame, and his song writing won him the Wrangler Award 14 times from the National Cowboy Hall of Fame. He was also recognized by the Academy Awards of Western Music. Over the span of his music career, he received numerous distinguished recognitions and awards.
Rich might have been best described as a great American guitarist. His playing spanned a variety of influences, from swing and jazz, to Tejano, traditional, and classical. Rich quickly found that Western music’s blend of traditional American folk and swing styles and Old West subject matter fit his style of playing and love of history. It proved to be the genre in which he would make his biggest mark. His talents twice led to White House performances for former President George Bush. He was a notable force in Western music.
Not only was Rich a talented musician and producer, he was a kind man that touched many lives with his shining personality and sincere interest in people. He was witty, intelligent with a sweet soul who impacted every person that he came in contact with. His legacy will live on in the rich musical history that he left behind.
Talents: Musician
Awards:
- 2012 Instrumentalist of the Year
- 2009 Hall of Fame Inductees
- 2004 Instrumentalist of the Year
- 2001 Instrumentalist of the Year
- 1998 Instrumentalist of the Year
- 1997 Instrumentalist of the Year