Dallas singer-songwriter Ward Richmond will release his new album Big Addict Energy in November 2025 on Idol Records. The project marks a deeply personal turn for the musician, reflecting on addiction, sobriety, grief and recovery through a blend of Texas roots, indie-folk and alternative country.
Richmond, a commercial real estate broker and recovering alcoholic, began playing music as a teenager in East Dallas. Influenced by artists such as the Rolling Stones, Buddy Holly and Jim Croce, he performed in Deep Ellum clubs before touring internationally with bands including Slick 57 and Boys Named Sue. Over his career, he has released 10 studio albums.
Listen to “The Non-Alcoholic Beer Drinkin’ Man” by Ward Richmond
The upcoming release reunites Richmond with longtime collaborator and producer John Pedigo, known for his work with Joshua Ray Walker, the Old 97’s and Vandoliers. Recorded at Pedigo’s Barnito Studios in East Dallas, the album includes contributions from several local musicians, among them Joshua Ray Walker, Becky Middleton, James Driscoll, Chad Stockslager and Trey Pendergrass.
The lead single, “Non-Alcoholic Beer Drinkin’ Man,” introduces the album’s tone with candid humor and surreal imagery. Pedigo described Richmond’s writing as rooted in East Dallas but expansive in scope.
Richmond said the album was inspired by personal loss, including the deaths of three friends to addiction in 2024. He called the project a reflection on confronting the past and finding acceptance.
Beyond music, Richmond hosts the podcast Truckin’ On, which features conversations with musicians, entrepreneurs and spiritual seekers. He also works as a commercial real estate broker in the trucking industry and is writing a memoir titled Big Addict Energy, chronicling his experiences with addiction and recovery.
Contributing Musicians:
John Pedigo – guitars
Joshua Ray Walker – lead guitar
Charley Wiles – lead guitar
Becky Middleton – backing vocals
James Driscoll – bass
Chad Stockslager – keys
Trey Pendergrass – drums
Robert Anderson – drums
Phillip Bowen – fiddle
Zach White – banjo
Cory Graves – trumpet
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