What was the one event that made you decide that you wanted to be involved in hardcore?  Also, how did you initially get involved in punk rock/hardcore?
When I was younger I was more into metal and I got into punk and hardcore more through crossover with bands like C.O.C. and D.R.I.

When did you actually start playing music?  What band?
I was a roadie for Agnostic Front in 92.  That is when AF broke up or took a 5 year break and we started up 25 Ta Life.  I started the band I‘m currently doing, Comin Correct, in 95.

Who had the most influence on you as a kid (not necessarily someone in hardcore; just anyone)?
My Dad.

Looking back on all the things you've been involved in, what do you feel are your biggest regrets and greatest achievements?
Getting involved with drugs when I was younger.  I was into heroin and crack, stuff like that.  I‘m 31 now and you have to live to learn.  I’ve realized that drugs are a dead end street.  Through the music and message of hardcore/punk, sXe hardcore has guided me in a positive direction.  I’ve been totally clean over 3 years and that is one of my biggest achievements, as well as being in a band that has toured Europe, Japan, west coast, all throughout the east coast, and have released records that have sold over 10,000.

What about Rick Ta Life do we not know that would shock or surprise us?
I love Sigmund the Seamonster!  And I have a crazy Culture Club collection.  [laughs]

What's the greatest catastrophe that Comin' Correct has ever had to face (minus everything that is horribly depressing)?
After the Europe tour in 98 the drummer of Comin Correct committed suicide.  That was a tough one.

What's the best rumor you've heard about yourself or your bands? Was it even close to true?
The best one was that I was beat down by some band, I’m not gonna name, with a baseball bat.  Come on now!!!

Does it bother you when people question your motivations?
Yeah, but hey.  As long as people are talking and continue to get my name right, spread all the rumors you want!  Thanks for your time.  I love you bored bastards.  P.S. - Get your own life!

Have you ever been a traditional skinhead?
Yes.  I was a traditional skinhead back in 1986.

In closing, what do you think the world needs to know about Rick Ta Life and/or Comin Correct?
I’ve helped mad bands along the way and got hardly any credit for it.  In '93 we were one of the bands that brought the shit back for NYHC.  A lot of bands are back now, hopefully people are a little wiser and the scene can continue to grow.  Stop the backstabbing...  Today.

added 12.09.01

see also Commin Correct review
25 Ta Life pictures
25 Ta Life review

updated n/a