Ricky Garcia: "My faith has pulled me out of dark places"

What were you doing at 22? Actually, maybe best not answer that question... 

Singer and songwriter Ricky Garcia? He's preparing to release his Netflix film Finding Ohana — out January 29th — and had already sold out the legendary Roxy Theatre in LA. 

Yeah, the kid's doing alright.  

In this Life / Style, Garcia discusses his meteoric career, as well as the two pieces of jewellery that mean the most to him, and his dream penthouse in New York. Given his current trajectory, that dream will become a reality sooner rather than later...

Garcia also advocates the power of religion. "My faith has grounded me a lot and pulled me out of dark places," he tells us. "That inspires me to keep getting better every day."

Enjoy this insightful interview with a unique talent — and prepare to feel your age! 

Life

What upcoming project(s) are you most excited about?

My song "All I Wanna Do" coming out in February and my film Finding Ohana which comes out January 29th!

What is your proudest professional accomplishment?

I have a few milestone moments in my career. For one, booking a series regular on Disney's Best Friends Whenever, booking the lead in Universal's Bigger Fatter Liar, filming Netflix feature film Finding Ohana in Thailand.

And last but not least music wise, performing on Good Morning America and selling out the Roxy!

If you could change one thing about your career, what would it be?

Probably taking the time to learn more instruments at a younger age.

If I had been practising and learning guitar since I started the game, it wouldn't be as hard trying to catch up on my skills now.

What do you hope to achieve that you haven’t yet?

Honestly, I've been looking into starting my own non-profit. That's something that's really been on my heart that I'd like to see come to fruition in the next couple years.

Outside of your family, who is / was your biggest inspiration?

Jesus Christ. My faith has grounded me a lot and pulled me out of dark places. That inspires me to keep getting better every day.

Tell us something nobody knows about you…

I like to garden and cook haha. I've also learned to enjoy cleaning. You can call me domesticated lol.

Style

What’s your favourite item of clothing – and what does it mean to you? 

I don't have a single favourite item of clothing. It comes down to what is going to give me confidence in that moment on that particular day.

Sometimes it's my hat, my shoes or my jacket. It all depends. 

Favourite accessory – watch / jewellery / etc – and why is it special to you?

I have two actually. My Grandpa gave me his old wedding band and I wear it every day. It makes me feel close to him. It's a part of me now.

The second is my cross necklace which I always have on me. It reminds me to not be afraid of my faith. 

What items do you take on holiday and why?

My guitar for sure. I gotta be ready to jam out wherever I go. It can be good for content too.

Is there an item you threw away – or lost – that you really miss?

My Mom got rid of my snowboard without me knowing. I still think about that board sometimes haha. Guess it's time to get a new one.

What’s next on your shopping list?

A new surfboard. I actually just got a new wet suit for my birthday and I can't wait to get in the water with all my fresh gear. 

What would you buy if money was no object?

A penthouse in NYC!