When did you first fall in love with the guitar?
The day I heard “Purple Haze” by Jimi Hendrix.
Who did you first try and emulate when you picked up the guitar?
Jimi Hendrix and Jeff Beck.
What are your favorite five guitar solos of all-time?
1) “Child in Time”, Richie Blackmore- Deep Purple
2) “Theme for An Imaginary Western”, Leslie West – Mountain
3) “Machine Gun”- Jimi Hendrix – Band of Gypsies
4) “Dazed and Confused”, Jimmy Page – Led Zeppelin
5) “Shapes of Things”, Jeff Beck – Yard Birds
How has 2012 been treating ‘The Emperor of Rock & Roll”?
2012 has been an extraordinary year. Between playing out in the North East with my show. Playing lead guitar on Rockabilly Legend Charlie Gracie‘s new single, “Baby Doll” which went to umber one. Appearing in Dee Sniders latest video “Mack The Knife”, Producing Dez Cadena of the Legendary Horror/Punk/Cult Band The Misfits. Playing all guitars on legendary Rock and Roll Chubby Checker’s newest single. Started to record my new CD. Due out October 2012. Also, I have been doing many other studio projects. It has been very creative year. The icing on the cake was joining Ace Frehley on stage in NYC with Anton Fig, after 10 years.
How did that come about?
Ace invited me down and my wife Joann spoke with his people. The next thing was Ace asked me to join him on stage. It all happened very quickly….”AND IT WAS A BEAUTIFUL THING”.
Did you read Ace’s book, “No Regrets”?
Yes I did…. I enjoyed the first 3 chapters the most, before Ace was in KISS. Overall, I enjoyed the entire book.
You’ve been working with Dez Cadena w/ Black Flag and The Misfits, how’s that going?
It was a blast with Dez. We are still working together.
Which track on your recent disc “Fever” is your fav and which ones do fans gravitate to?
My favorite track is “Radio Dreams”. Fans seem to be drawn to “I’m No Good” and “Standing in the Rain”.
What was it like playing with Leslie West? learn any new licks from him?
I was able to tour the world for 8 years with Leslie West & Corky Laing of Mountain. I already knew the Licks (LOL)
Is there anyone you haven’t jammed with that you would like to someday?
Jeff Beck …..and many more.
CHICAGO 'N BEYOND 
Great job Dave…….Richie is a man about music and perfecting it . He is a great entertainer……..Richie steps out of the box to create his sound.
hey richie its john auriemma your a great friend i cherrish your friendship you and joann treat me like we have been friends forever. i love you guys rock and roll forever my friends
Hey Richie, glad to hear that this year 2012 had been really extraordinary for you! Plus, Dennis & I have been so very happy to get to come up to NY and to get to see your shows three times there too. It was a great time and a great shows too and of course over at Dingbatz in Clifton NJ. We’re looking forward to be continuing to be coming up to see more of your futures shows again and looking forward to be seeing you at the Chiller Theatre in October too! Can’t wait for your new CD! Our love to you & Joann.