Rocker Ricky Byrd on 36 Years of Recovery: ‘I Come Back Stronger’

September 25, 2023

In 1981, guitar ace Ricky Byrd cemented his place in rock history with the unforgettable opening riff on Joan Jett & the Blackhearts’ “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll,” but the maestro notched an even greater accomplishment a few years later. On Sept. 25, 1987, Byrd got sober from drugs and alcohol — and 36 years later, he’s still rocking it.

In his 36 years, the recovery troubadour and All Sober ambassador extraordinaire has become a certified recovery coach and counselor, and walked with countless people seeking sobriety, hosting recovery music groups at treatment centers. He’s also been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and released four solo albums, including two focused on recovery: “Clean Getaway” and “Sobering Times.” (Check out his tunes here.)

For National Recovery Month, Ricky shares this message and his song “I Come Back Stronger.” Happy soberversary, Ricky! We hope everyone will be inspired by Ricky’s life of fulfillment and his credo, “We can and do recover!”

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