How DID we Get HERE?A Double Dream comes true
Some stories are meant to be shared—the kind that feels like destiny unfolding right before your eyes. For Rich Hovey, that story began 64 years ago when a simple, heartfelt gesture laid the foundation for a miracle that would go worldwide.
At just 17 years old, Rich Hovey did something extraordinary for love. With the excitement and innocence of youth, he gifted his very first set of bongo drums to his 16-year-old high school sweetheart as a symbol of commitment—a timeless gesture to go steady—just before leaving for bootcamp in the United States Air Force. In July of 1961, Rich departed for Lackland AFB, a step that would mark the beginning of another remarkable chapter in his life.
Fast forward to October of 2022, at age 79, Rich Hovey took his very first drum lesson with the one and only Mike Baez. What started as a new passion quickly transformed into something magical. Soon after, Rich, Mike, and Doug Johnson formed Rich Hovey and The Classics All Star Band, a group that has since become a source of joy, inspiration, and purpose.
Now 81 years old and happily married to his high school sweetheart for an incredible 62 years, Rich and his band have played multiple concerts, sharing their love for music with audiences far and wide. But their mission goes beyond entertainment. As the Honorary Ambassador for the Wounded Warrior Project, Rich Hovey and The Classics All Star Band have raised thousands of dollars to help veterans across America—a cause close to Rich’s heart.
THe dream grows bigger
The story doesn’t end there. Rich Hovey has been named World Ambassador USAF Airman Heritage Foundation/Museum as he continues to champion causes that matter. Moving forward, Rich and the band are partnering with The Band of The West to host concerts supporting a massive funding drive. The goal? To raise the money needed to build the new USAF Airman Heritage Museum and Hangar at Lackland AFB—the very place where Rich’s journey began all those years ago.
From bongo drums in high school to making miracles happen worldwide, Rich Hovey’s story is proof that:
Dreams do come true—or even double true and more!
A dream born in love, rooted in passion, and guided by purpose has blossomed into something extraordinary, touching lives and inspiring generations.
The Journey Continues
Today, Rich Hovey and The Classics All Star Band continue to share their music, inspire others, and make a difference. Their story is a powerful reminder that no dream is too big, no goal too far, and it’s never too late to create a miracle….More to come!
BOOK THE BAND
If you have an event coming up and would like to book Rich Hovey and The Classics All Star Band, please click the link below!
