Richard Blade: The Enduring Voice Of The 80s And Beyond
When you think about the vibrant sounds and unforgettable tunes of the 1980s, one name, Richard Blade, often comes to mind. He is, to many, the very heart and soul of that incredible musical era. For decades, Richard Blade has brought so much joy to listeners, sharing stories and sounds that truly define a generation. It’s almost like he has a special way of connecting with people through the music he plays, making him a cherished voice for countless fans across the globe.
This remarkable individual, born Richard Thomas Sheppard, has built a career that stretches far beyond just playing records. Richard Blade is, in fact, a world-renowned radio DJ, a published author, a talented producer, and, quite frankly, a leading expert on 80s music. His work has touched so many different parts of entertainment, from the airwaves to the written page, and even to the stage.
You might know him from his celebrated time on KROQ FM Pasadena, or perhaps from his appearances on MV3, Video One, and Video Beat. More recently, he has continued to connect with audiences on SiriusXM’s First Wave, a place where the 80s truly live on. And, to be honest, his current bestselling autobiography, "World in My Eyes," has given fans an even deeper look into his fascinating life. He’s a familiar, soothing soul who is filled with stories about Billy Idol, Duran Duran, Pet Shop Boys, and Berlin—a virtual who's who of new wave music, which is just amazing.
Table of Contents
- Biography and Personal Details
- The Early Days and Radio Roots
- A Voice for a Generation on the Airwaves
- Author and Storyteller: World in My Eyes
- Live on Stage and On Tour
- Hollywood Walk of Fame: A Well-Deserved Honor
- A Personal Touch Beyond the Mic
- Frequently Asked Questions About Richard Blade
Biography and Personal Details
Here is a quick look at some key facts about Richard Blade:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Richard Thomas Sheppard |
| Known As | Richard Blade |
| Profession | Radio DJ, Author, Producer, 80s Music Expert |
| Notable Work | KROQ FM Pasadena, MV3, Video One, Video Beat, SiriusXM's First Wave |
| Autobiography | "World in My Eyes" |
| Hollywood Walk of Fame Star | Received June 6, 2024 (Category: Radio) |
| Personal Life | Married, 2 dogs, animal rescuer |
| Current Tours | Lost 80's Live Tour, Howard Jones & ABC Tour |
The Early Days and Radio Roots
Richard Blade, whose given name is Richard Thomas Sheppard, started his remarkable journey in a rather unique way. His early days saw him as a student at Oxford, a place with a long history, which is quite interesting. This background, you know, gave him a different kind of beginning compared to some others in the music world. It’s a bit of a departure from what you might expect for someone who would become such an icon of 80s music, but it apparently shaped his perspective in some respects.
His professional radio career truly began to take off when he joined KROQ in 1982. This was a pivotal moment, really, as KROQ FM Pasadena was, and still is, a very influential station, especially for new wave and alternative music. It was there that Richard Blade started to make his mark, connecting with listeners and building a reputation for his passion for music. He became a familiar voice, and to be honest, a kind of guide for people wanting to discover new sounds. His time at KROQ laid the groundwork for everything that came after, pretty much establishing him as a key figure in the Los Angeles radio scene, and that's just a little part of his story.
A Voice for a Generation on the Airwaves
Richard Blade is, for many, the very sound of the 1980s. His voice has been a constant companion on the radio for a long time, guiding listeners through the amazing landscape of new wave and pop music. Beyond KROQ, he extended his reach through shows like MV3, Video One, and Video Beat, which were, in a way, just as important for bringing music to people's homes. He has this special knack for making you feel like he's right there with you, sharing stories and memories connected to every song. He’s quite a storyteller, actually, and it’s clear he truly cares about the music and the people who listen.
He's known for his incredible memory and his ability to recall fascinating anecdotes about the biggest names in music. You'll often hear him share tales about his friends, people like Billy Idol, Duran Duran, Pet Shop Boys, and Berlin. These aren't just random stories; they're glimpses into the lives of the artists who shaped an era. His friends have even given him honorary platinum records, which, to be honest, line the walls of his studio. This really shows how much he means to them and how respected he is within the music community, which is rather heartwarming.
SiriusXM's First Wave Connection
In more recent times, Richard Blade has continued to be a beloved presence on SiriusXM's First Wave, channel 33. This platform allows him to keep the spirit of the 80s alive for a dedicated audience who simply can't get enough of that decade's sounds. He feels it’s an honor to be in this role, serving as a host on First Wave, and you can tell he means it. He brings his signature enthusiasm and deep knowledge to every broadcast, which is truly a treat for listeners. It’s like he's still connecting with everyone, just as he always has, through the music he loves so much. This connection, you know, makes his shows a very special part of the day for many, many fans.
Author and Storyteller: World in My Eyes
Richard Blade’s talent for storytelling isn't limited to the airwaves; he's also a bestselling author. His autobiography, "World in My Eyes," has captured the hearts of many, and it's available worldwide on Amazon.com. This book is much more than just a look back at one decade; it’s a journey that few have experienced, which is pretty compelling. He takes you through his life, starting from his early days as a student at Oxford, and then, you know, into the wild and wonderful world of music and radio.
The book offers unique perspectives and intimate details about his career and personal life. It's a chance to truly get to know the man behind the microphone, to understand his passion, and to see the world through his eyes, so to speak. People have really responded to it, and that’s a testament to his ability to connect with readers just as easily as he connects with listeners. It’s a very honest account, and it feels like you're having a conversation with him, which is a great quality for an autobiography to have, honestly.
For anyone who has enjoyed his radio shows or loves the music of the 80s, reading "World in My Eyes" is, in a way, an essential experience. It fills in the gaps, provides context, and gives you a deeper appreciation for his contributions to music and entertainment. You can read the entire story in his autobiography, "World in My Eyes," available worldwide, and that's just fantastic. It’s a way to keep the 80s alive, not just through music, but through personal stories too, which is kind of special.
Live on Stage and On Tour
Richard Blade isn't just a voice on the radio or a name on a book cover; he's also a vibrant presence on the live music scene. He truly helps keep the spirit of the 80s alive by bringing the music directly to the fans. The enthusiasm of fans packing stadiums for bands and books like Richard Blade’s shows that the 80s will, apparently, never end, and they never want it to, which is pretty clear. He often announces upcoming gigs, appearances, and book signings, making sure his loyal following can stay updated on events featuring this legendary DJ and 80s music icon. He’s always got something going on, which is just great for everyone who loves that era.
The Lost 80's Live Experience
Get ready for an 80s extravaganza because Richard Blade & the Lost 80's Live Tour are coming to town! Richard announces his second national tour this year with Lost 80's Live, and it's going to be something else. Hey, 80s aficionados and music lovers, break out your parachute pants, tease your hair to the heavens, and get ready to dance like it's 1985 because the legendary Lost 80's Live tour is hitting the road again, and this time, it's bigger and better than ever! And who's steering this time machine of pure 80s bliss? None other than the iconic Richard Blade. He hosts the 2025 Lost 80s Live tour, and it promises to be an unforgettable experience. This September, the tour kicks off in the U.S., and it’s bringing all the energy you need, so you really should find event and ticket information.
National Tours with Music Legends
Richard Blade has also been kicking off national tours with some truly iconic artists. For instance, he's been on the road with Howard Jones and ABC, which is a fantastic combination for any 80s music fan. He announced, "Hi, it's Richard Blade and one week from today, I start my first ever national tour and you've got to be there, it's going to be so great," showing his excitement for these events. The last meet and greet of the Howard Jones & ABC tour with Richard Blade did not disappoint, with lovely people lined three quarters of the way down the side aisle at the Keswick Theatre. He even mentioned, "Now time to change clothes and get ready to hit the stage for my final opening set," giving a little peek behind the scenes. These tours are a chance for fans to relive their favorite memories and make new ones, all with Richard Blade as their guide. Haircut 100 and Richard Blade (US only) are also part of the excitement, so get ready, music lovers, because the 80s are very much alive and well on stage, and that's just how it should be.
Hollywood Walk of Fame: A Well-Deserved Honor
A truly significant moment in Richard Blade’s career happened very recently, and it was a huge recognition of his lasting impact. Los Angeles radio staple Richard Blade was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on June 6. This is a massive achievement, something that many people only dream of, and it’s a clear sign of his importance in the entertainment world. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce honored legendary radio personality Richard Blade with the 2,782nd star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Thursday, June 6, at 11:00 AM PT at 1725 Vine Street. Blade received his star in the category of radio, which is, of course, where he has made such a name for himself.
The ceremony itself was a celebration of his career, with notable speakers sharing their appreciation. Walk of Famer Jimmy Kimmel was there, speaking about Richard Blade's contributions, and Oscar E`, the Richard Blade fan club coordinator, also spoke. It was a day filled with joy and recognition, marking his place among the stars, quite literally. This honor truly cements his legacy as a broadcasting legend and a beloved figure in popular culture. It’s a moment that highlights just how much he means to so many people, and it’s pretty special, if you ask me.
A Personal Touch Beyond the Mic
Beyond his public persona as a DJ and author, Richard Blade is, in a way, a very relatable person with a rich personal life. He is married and shares his home with two dogs, showing a softer side that fans often appreciate. He's also an animal rescuer, which speaks volumes about his caring nature and dedication to helping others, even the furry kind. This aspect of his life, you know, adds another layer to his already impressive story, making him even more endearing to his fans.
His friends have presented him with honorary platinum records, which, as mentioned before, line the walls of his studio. This is a very clear sign of the deep connections and mutual respect he shares with those around him, especially within the music industry. He's not just a professional; he's somebody who builds lasting friendships and earns genuine affection. You can almost feel the warmth of these relationships, which is quite nice. He's a legendary DJ, but he's also everybody’s friend, and that's a pretty wonderful thing to be.
For any inquiries or to discuss corporate event opportunities, you can kindly fill out the form on his official page. This shows his openness to connecting with fans and potential partners, keeping that friendly, approachable vibe going. He’s always been about connecting with people, and that's something that clearly hasn't changed. It’s pretty cool how accessible he remains, despite all his success.
Frequently Asked Questions About Richard Blade
Here are some common questions people often ask about Richard Blade:
What is Richard Blade's real name?
Richard Blade was born Richard Thomas Sheppard. He adopted "Richard Blade" as his professional name, and it's the name most people know him by today. It's pretty common for people in entertainment to use a stage name, and his has certainly stuck, so that's just how it is.
Where can I read Richard Blade's autobiography?
You can read Richard Blade's bestselling autobiography, "World in My Eyes," which is available worldwide on Amazon.com. It's a fantastic read that takes you through his life story, offering a lot of insights and personal experiences. It's a great way to learn more about him, honestly.
How can I stay updated on Richard Blade's upcoming events and tours?
To stay updated on Richard Blade's upcoming gigs, appearances, and book signings, you can follow his official page. He often posts announcements there, and you can also find event and ticket information for tours like the Lost 80's Live. It's pretty easy to keep up with him, and that's really helpful for fans who want to see him live. You can also learn more about his radio work on our site, and check out this page for more tour details.
Richard Blade Page
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