Richie Valentine

“Rockacanna.” That’s as close as Richard Valentine Tuttell can come to defining his musical genre, a compelling mix of folk and rock influences. Rocking since the late ’70s in venues ranging from the Orlando Naval Training Center to juvenile detention facilities (along with the obligatory appearances at Holiday Inn lounges), “Valentine” has mastered a variety of musical styles, many of which are reflected in his songwriting. A native of New York who grew up in Central Florida, Valentine relo...

“Rockacanna.” That’s as close as Richard Valentine Tuttell can come to defining his musical genre, a compelling mix of folk and rock influences. Rocking since the late ’70s in venues ranging from the Orlando Naval Training Center to juvenile detention facilities (along with the obligatory appearances at Holiday Inn lounges), “Valentine” has mastered a variety of musical styles, many of which are reflected in his songwriting. A native of New York who grew up in Central Florida, Valentine relocated in the early ’90s to the Foothills of the Appalachian mountains. Americana influences of the region are evident in several of his songs. He recently opened for hit songwriter Jon Ims (She’s in Love With the Boy) at the Down Home in Johnson City, Tenn. and has performed twice at the Bristol, Tenn. Roots and Rhythm Festival as part of the Boone, N.C. Chapter of the Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI). A professional writer, he has had music-related articles published online and in print, including a piece in “The Indie Bible.”