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The fifth child of a musically inclined family of six, Richard sang before he completed his first sentence. In Ellinwood, Kansas, a town of approximately 2,000 people, the young Richard inspired church parishioners with stirring solos during services, weddings and funerals. Later he charmed diners as a singing waiter. From elementary school through his Bachelor’s at Wichita State University and his MBA at University of Texas, Richard studied classical voice. Drawn to the narrative power and sweeping scores of musical theater, he starred in many summer theater productions. Influences include Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Elton John and the musical theater canon. Throughout his corporate career, Richard maintained a strong and joyous connection to music and he re-dedicated himself to singing in 2007.
At the same magic moment, Kincaid, struck by the altruism of folks he met in the non-profit world, founded the BeCause Foundation, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to solving complex social issues and promoting change through the power of film. The documentaries tackle homelessness and healthcare, human rights in Eastern Burma and sexual abuse of children. Each film tells the story of individuals to shed light on the plight of many. In this way, Richard and BeCause give a face to human suffering and the heroic actions taken to alleviate it. Similarly, in his music, Richard interprets songs that give voice to raw human emotion in the face of tragedy and grace. Listeners find his singing “incredibly spiritual.”
On his first album, Return
The album, completed in February 2009, evolved organically. Initially, Richard worked alone on time-tested, narrative ballads that challenged and thrilled him such as Robbie Williams’ Angels
How do you describe your music to people, Richard?
A unique blend of vocal purity, soaring emotions, the strength of opera and musical theatre, with the flavor of 70s R&B/Soul.
Tell me about how you originally got into your craft.
I started singing as a small child. My parents claim I was singing before I was talking. From there I performed in church and then moved on to musical theatre in high school and college. I formally studied voice for around 15 years. I never completely stopped performing, but I had a lot of years when I was to busy with my business career to do much with music. Now I am back and really enjoying singing again. I called my first CD "Return" because it really was a return to one of my true passions.
What is your favorite thing to do in the whole wide world?
Hiking in Glacier National Park. I am an avid hiker and I just love Montana. It never gets old to me. The pure, stunning beauty of Glacier National Park never fails to renew me.
What is your biggest challenge when it comes to running your business?
Finding time for everything is my biggest challenge. I am pursuing music, business and philanthropy at the same time. I also am married and have three kids. Like most people, I struggle to do all of these important roles well.
When you were a kid, what did you think you were going to be when you grew up?
I thought I was going to be a doctor. Then, I got into organic chemistry and realized that pre-med was not happening for me. I always wanted to be a musician, but I convinced myself that I needed another "real job" to fall back on. So, I ended up in real estate and it worked out well for me.
In what way has your community impacted your development as a musician?
I have benefited from tremendous inspiration from the nonprofit community. A lot of my recent performances have been fundraisers. More than that, I am constantly humbled by the work of humanitarians. There really are lots of people who dedicate their lives to others while seeking nothing for themselves. Let's just say that is a little different than the majority of people I met during my business career. I have also been encouraged to pursue music by many in the nonprofit world. They, as do I, feel like music is a universal language that can uplift and unite everyone. I know I draw on their inspiration when I sing.
What other artists out there do you love?
I love Stevie Wonder as a composer, signer, performer, etc. He is a miracle that only comes around once in a generation. I also really admire Marvin Gaye, Michael McDonald and Elton John. As to new artists, I think the lead singer from the Script
What does your future hold?
I am already working on a new CD and I am hoping to perform a lot more in the Chicago area with a top notch band. At the same time, I really involved with several not-for-profit projects that I hope will significantly improve the lives of children in the U.S. and Haiti. Life is good!