Episode 28: Ron Hicklin- Legendary Vocalist

You might not know the name Ron Hicklin, but you certainly know his voice. Ron and his singing group, "The Ron Hicklin Singers," sang on over 100 #1 hit songs with artists like Sinatra, Elvis, Dean Martin, Neil Diamond, Barbara Streisand, Ringo Starr, Glen Campbell, Michael Jackson, The Carpenters, and many, many more. His group is considered "The Wrecking Crew" of vocalists, and frequently recorded on albums with that famous group of world class studio musicians. Ron's group provided the vocals (along with David Cassidy) for The Partridge Family. 

Ron was a "ghost singer" for The Monkees, Gary Lewis and the Playboys, The Lettermen, and others, being featured vocally, but often uncredited and unknown by the public.

For 40 years, Ron and others he hired, were the singing voices of Alvin and the Chipmunks on albums like "The Chipmunks Sing The Beatles' Hits."

Through the 60s and 70s, The Ron Hicklin Singers sang scores of TV theme songs for shows like Batman, Happy Days, Laverne and Shirley, Love, American Style and countless others.

The memorable commercial jingle, "You Deserve a Break Today" for McDonalds and many dozens more were sung by Ron and his group. 

Ron's ubiquitous group of world class singers, including a previous podcast guest, Sally Stevens, lent their vocal talent to film score in hundreds of films like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, Glory, Apollo 13, The Godfather and on and on.

In our wonderful conversation, Ron shares rich stories about his friendships with Glen Campbell and Leon Russell. He shares how a recording session with Elvis for the 1968 Comeback Special, made a fan out of Ron. 

If you love music, this chat reveals a slice of music history that is unparalleled. Ron has been retired for many years and doesn't do many interviews, so this is a genuine treat. I hope you enjoy this as much as I do. 

 

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Copyright Notification:

Song clips used under Fair Use for commentary and educational purposes.

Podcast theme song "Arise and Shine" by Chris Taylor used by permission.