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Episode 268 – Russ Ballard – The Man Behind the Hits

  1. Episode 268 - Russ Ballard - The Man Behind the Hits Rik Anthony / Russ Ballard 47:03

On this episode of the Someone You Should Know Podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome a true legend in rock and pop music – Russ Ballard.  His career took off at just 14 when The Shadows recorded one of his songs, and his songwriting went on to define generations. With timeless hits like “Since You Been Gone” (Rainbow), “God Gave Rock 'n' Roll to You” (Argent and Kiss), and “New York Groove” (Ace Frehley), Russ’s work is legendary. He’s also collaborated with icons like Roger Daltrey, America, and Elkie Brooks. His latest release, Songs From The Warehouse / The Hits Rewired, offers new material alongside fresh takes on classic hits. Don’t miss this conversation with the incredibly talented Russ Ballard!. Russ is definitely Someone You Should Know. 

Click here to buy Rik Anthony a cold one.

Show Links:

Click here to go to Russ Ballard's Website
Click here to go to Russ Ballard's Facebook
Click here to go to Russ Ballard's Instagram
Click here to go to Russ Ballard's YouTube Channel
Click here to go to Russ Ballard's Newsletter
Click here to go to Russ Ballard's Podcast

Videos from this Episode (click the song title to see the video)

Since You've Been Gone        Voices (Original MTV video)

New York Groove    God Gave Rock and Roll to You

All music used with permission from the artist

Someone You Should Know 2025 // CatGotYourTongueStudios 2025

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How to Contact Us:
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https://Someoneyoushouldknowpodcast.com
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rik-anthony2019/
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@someoneyoushouldknowpodcast

Thank you for listening!

Theme music “Welcome to the Show” by Kevin MacLeod was used per the standard license agreement.

Rik Anthony Someone You Should Know Podcast

Somehow, Rik knew he wanted to be a radio announcer from an early age. So after graduation in 1978, Rik joined the U.S. Air Force to be a Radio and TV announcer for the Armed Forces Radio and TV Service (AFRTS). After 20 years, he retired from the Air Force in 1998. He retired on a Friday in August then two days later, started a new job as a host and producer for the All Star Radio Network. During his 19 years there, Rik hosted several nationally syndicated radio shows, including: "Back in the Pits with Rik Anthony" and "Someone You Should Know." Rik has thousands of celebrity interviews in his archives.

Rik retired from daily on-air radio on 1/1/23 and is focusing on his podcast and enjoying life. Rik has two grown children, Shauna and Brad.

Rik loves flying airplanes, traveling, cooking, the arts, and spending time with his wife, Leslie.