Joe Ruicci – Publisher/Editor
Joe Ruicci is the founder, publisher, and editor of Joe’s Place – “Where Music Lives”, an online music publication dedicated to celebrating Blues, Jazz, R&B, Soul, Rock, and roots music from Canada and around the world. A lifelong music enthusiast, Ruicci’s passion for live music began in his youth and evolved into a remarkable career that has included roles as a musician, concert promoter, nightclub owner, restaurateur, music buyer, festival organizer, entertainment consultant, and music advocate. Through Joe’s Place, he combines decades of firsthand experience with an unwavering commitment to supporting artists, preserving musical heritage, and connecting music lovers with the performers, venues, and events that keep live music thriving. Known for his deep appreciation of Blues and Jazz and his candid, passionate writing style, Ruicci continues to shine a spotlight on both legendary performers and emerging talent while sharing the stories that make music an enduring force in people’s lives.
Rico Ferrara
Rico Ferrara is one of Canada’s most respected blues advocates, writers, and music industry veterans. As the publisher and editor of the Blues For A Big Town blog, Ferrara combines decades of experience as a concert promoter, festival programmer, talent buyer, and music journalist to celebrate the rich history of Blues, R&B, Soul, and Roots music. After a successful career in corporate marketing, he followed his passion for music and went on to promote more than 200 shows across Ontario, introducing Canadian audiences to numerous acclaimed artists while playing key roles with festivals such as Waterfront Blues and the Beaches International Jazz Festival. Since launching Blues For A Big Town in 2020, Ferrara has earned a reputation for thoughtful, deeply researched articles that illuminate both legendary and overlooked artists, bringing historical context, industry insight, and genuine passion to every story he tells.
Steve Obrien
Steve O’Brien is a musician, music reviewer, and contributing writer for Joe’s Place – Where Music Lives. Drawing on years of experience as both a performer and passionate music enthusiast, O’Brien brings a unique artist’s perspective to his reviews and feature articles. His writing combines technical musical insight with an appreciation for the emotional connection that great music creates, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the artists, recordings, and live performances he covers. With a particular appreciation for Blues, Jazz, Roots, and classic Rock traditions, O’Brien is dedicated to supporting musicians at every stage of their careers while helping audiences discover exceptional talent. Through his work with Joe’s Place, he continues to champion live music, celebrate artistic excellence, and share the stories behind the music that enriches communities across Canada and beyond.
Joe Ruicci 
