Zaphre’ Blue is a talented musical artist hailing from Detroit, Michigan. Born Recardo Beamon, he is affectionately known as Rick Beamon by those close to him. Rick is a versatile musician, vocalist, music producer, writer, arranger, and actor. He grew up in a musical family, surrounded by his siblings—William, Spence, Cynthyah, Stephanie, Chantay, and Nicole—which undoubtedly shaped his artistic inclinations.
Rick's musical journey began at the tender age of 4 when his mother gifted him his first toy drum set. Though he was not formally trained, his natural talent for drumming quickly became evident. Inspired by his older brothers, William and Spence, who played guitar and bass, Rick would watch their rehearsals intently in the basement, absorbing everything as he beat on his mother’s furniture and sewing boxes. One day, his mother heard him drumming in the basement while his brothers were away, recognizing his innate talent, which led her to encourage his musical pursuits.
Growing up, singing around the house became one of Rick's cherished pastimes. His mother often sang, and he would mimic the songs he heard on the radio, much like her. His father, William, was a singer in a gospel group known as the Holy Wonders, further immersing Rick in the world of music.
Rick’s formal education included attending Foch Middle School and Barbour Middle School, where he began playing drums in the 6th grade. He continued his musical journey through various high schools—Southeastern (Detroit), Fontana High (California), and ultimately graduating from Redford High School in Detroit. During high school, he participated in orchestra, jazz ensemble, marching band, and choir.
Immediately after high school, Rick played with seasoned musicians in Detroit, gaining invaluable knowledge and experience. Growing up in Detroit ingrained in him a deep-rooted passion for music, characterized by drive and ambition. After five years of playing locally, he was invited to tour with the renowned R&B soul group, the Dramatics. This experience opened doors to work with legendary Motown artists such as The Contours and Martha Reeves.
Rick's journey has allowed him to tour with notable artists like Jean Carne and Shirley Jones of the Jones Girls, as well as perform alongside Cherrelle, Lindsey Webster, Nils, and Brandon Willis. He has also collaborated with esteemed local Detroit musicians, including Dennis Coffey, Liz Larin, Thornetta Davis, Kimmie Horne, Sean Blackman, John Arnold, Beth Stalker, Bob Mervak, the Dave Hamilton Band, and many others.
Today, Rick Beamon channels his experiences and talents into his artistry as Zaphre’ Blue. It has long been his dream to write, produce, and arrange his own music. At just 10 years old, he asked his mother for a tape recorder for his birthday. By Christmas, he had a make-shift recording studio with three tape recorders, creating music for his mother and honing his craft. As Zaphre’ Blue he is excited to share his music with the world, infusing it with sincerity and passion.
With songs like Pieces of Innocence and But Then, Rick’s heartfelt expression resonates deeply with listeners.
The name “Zaphre’ Blue was chosen through a nostalgic journey inspired by his late mother, who once advised him to “just go to the dictionary and start at the back.” This led him to discover the word Zaffre’, representing the color of hot iron ore that turns cobalt blue—Rick’s favorite color.
From the depths of his heart, Rick brings you music that you’re sure to enjoy!
