Rick Sherman

Rick Sherman began playing the piano in his hometown of Kansas City at the age of four, emulating his father, professional pianist Art Sherman. He began performing professionally at the age of twelve. For the past 47 years, Rick has entertained audiences with his unique One Man Band format—singing while playing left-hand bass on one keyboard, performing piano, organ, guitar, saxophone, flute, and other instrumental sounds on a second keyboard, all while controlling two drum machines with foot pedals.

Sherman is a well-known figure in Newport Beach. On August 24, 2023, he celebrated his 45-year anniversary of performing at the Village Inn on Balboa Island, where he has worked for five different owners since beginning there in 1978 at the age of 26. On Sunday, May 18, 2025, Rick performed for the 28th year at the annual Balboa Island Artwalk, and on Sunday, June 1, he was once again the featured entertainer on the Grandstand Stage for the annual Balboa Island Parade—another tradition he has upheld for 28 years. Year after year, he continues to be a central presence at these beloved Balboa Island community events.

In addition to his local performances, Sherman played every Saturday night for the final eight years of the landmark Villa Nova restaurant in Newport Beach (now The Winery). He has also provided music for the Orange County Business Journal award dinners and luncheons for over 20 years.

Artist Steve Simon honored Sherman with “landmark” status in his book Newport Beach: Celebrating Ninety Years. Among portraits of iconic Newport Beach tourist destinations such as Newport Harbor, the Balboa Fun Zone, the Balboa Island Ferry, and both the Newport and Balboa Piers, Rick Sherman is the only individual recognized—cementing his place as a true local legend.

“One of the most unstoppable lounge performers in this area is local legend Rick Sherman. Sherman has been a fixture on the local lounge scene for over 35 years, and he’s still going strong. Selecting from a vast and eclectic repertoire – Sherman appeals to a wide age range. Check him out, and plan on returning soon.”—Barry Koltnow, Orange County Register

“We found one of Orange County’s hidden treasures, Rick Sherman, the one-man band, filling the room with his usual … meaning … terrific music. Rick Sherman … a very good reason for going back.”—John Hall, The Orange County Register