Donny James Richardson - Keys

Donny James Richardson came from a musical family, from classical pianists to folk guitarists and everything in between. However, his interest came a little later than most at age 17. By the next year, he was improvising on the piano, learning guitar, and singing to his favorite 80’s bands.

At 23, he began studying under Bill Wentz who was one of the most accomplished musician in the area. This gave Donny a solid theoretical understanding to then go on to college to study theory, jazz combo, composition, and recording. 

At age 29, Donny decided to pause music for other endeavors: namely going to live in Queretaro Mexico to teach English. This is where he met his wife, and their three children were born. In 2011, Donny and his family returned to his native California with a new professional career: recruiting – but music was still brewing. He decided to start playing again and quickly started meeting and playing with bands in the area. 

In February 2022, Donny was invited to join Whytesnake, and the lineup was solidified. Donny feels that his biggest contribution is color and context. “Most of the time, the best keyboard players and rhythm guitar players shouldn’t even be noticed until they stop playing” (quote stolen directly from EVH). That’s what I’m going to do, fill space. 

Donny’s rig is simple: the 73-key Korg Nautilus.