Texas Stranger: Happy Trails Rick

I recently lost a man I truly admired and respected. Rick Sikes was a local musician here in Coleman and if you want to know the definition of a true "outlaw'' you don't have to look any further than Rick. Back in the 1960's Rick was an up and coming country musician who was cut out of the same honky tonk and western swing cloth as Ernest Tubb, Lefty Frizzell and Bob Wills. Rick even had the opportunity to play with, and open, for some of these guys.

Rick and the Rhythm Rebels were starting to make regional name for themselves when a case of stupid jumped up and bit them. They decided to rob a bank. When they were caught and tried Rick took his punishment like a man and did fifteen years in Leavenworth prison. He continued to make music while locked up and even received permission to put together a recording studio there. It is my understanding that this is still the only recording studio in a federal prison.

After being released he came back to Coleman and raised a family and owned a couple of small businesses. Several years back he was talked into getting back to music. He opened a small music shop and taught guitar. After I moved back to Coleman a few years ago I got to know Rick better and spend some time in his shop. The man was a treasure chest when it came to old "war stories" about the music business. From West Texas roadhouses to Nashville's music row he had pretty much seen it all and lived to tell it.

Rick was kind enough to listen to the songs I had written and not fall out of his chair laughing at me. He gave me good advice, he once told me "Jason, I never got rich or famous playing music and I don't care if anyone else likes my music....because I like it!" I took those words to heart. I may never get anyone to record my songs. I may never get to perform my cowboy poetry but that is ok. I like my music and end the end that is all that really matters.

Rick did have one star pupil though, a young man named Denny Fulbright. Denny is still in high school but he is already starting to make a name for himself. He got the opportunity to play with Aaron Watson this past summer. Denny and his dad D.L. would be the first to tell you what a legendary man Rick Sikes was. Well Rick, we will all miss you down here. Your stories and music will live on through those who knew you. Happy Trails, Vaya Con Dios!