Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Inspires With Story of Recovery, Hope

RIVERHEAD, NY — He may have graced stages worldwide and earned his place and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but Ricky Byrd, guitarist for Joan Jett And the Blackhearts and other legends, has perhaps found his greatest gift — inspiring and uplifting others in recovery from addiction.

Bobby Hartmann, president and founder of Mainstream House Recovery Homes, said Byrd spoke to the men and women on their journey toward recovery Tuesday night.

"He had us in the palm of his hands. Lifting all with his experience, strength and hope," Hartmann wrote on Facebook. "The men and women of Mainstream House Recovery Homes had the pleasure of listening to the music and tales from a Rock and Roll Recovery Troubadour."

2015 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee with Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, and "Recovery Troubadour Ricky Byrd", Hartmann said, "played and spoke of recovery, his experience, strength and hope of 29 years. We are walking on air! Thank you, sir."

Hartmann said Ricky Byrd celebrated 29 years of sobriety Thursday in Howard Beach, where he was in attendance.

"He was kind enough to drive out and play for the men and women of Mainstream. Even with close to 15 years clean, his songs even uplifted" him, Hartmann said. "His story and music had my clients enthralled with enthusiasm. It was so thick you could cut it with a knife. I was so happy to listen to the exchanges, and see the smiles. These are the moments that make all the hard work worth it for me, to see that they are on their journey, even if for this one moment."

And it wasn't a one-time gig. Looking ahead, Hartmann said Byrd will be making regular visits to Mainstream.

"His recovery all-star band will also be the headliner to the next rock show I produce at the Vail-Leavitt in the upcoming months," he said.

Patch photo courtesy of Bobby Hartmann.