The genesis of As-Is No Warranty Music began 28 years ago in 1980 when a then 19-year-old Ric Cabot Podmore met up-and-coming producer, Beau Hill, while both were recording at the legendary Applewood Studios. Beau recognized the enormous potential of Ric’s talent and began to tutor the aspiring artist. Not long after, the two began to collaborate as songwriters and it was during this time that Ric was given a valuable education about how the music business worked, how to produce artists in a studio, and how to generate intellectual property in the music entertainment business. The lessons from this experience were the beginning steps on Ric’s journey down the road of understanding intricate details in the world of music. In 1981, “Neon Hotel,” a tune written by Beau and Ric, along with guitarist David Zychek, was recorded and released on Airborne’s album, “The Dig.”
It is important for us to note that Beau Hill is widely regarded today as one of the most talented and successful producers in the music business. His credits include records with artists Alice Cooper, Bob Dylan, Chaka Khan, Ratt and Winger. He has produced several top 20 singles in his career, and during this time Ric had access to solid teaching principles from an instructor who attained remarkable success at the highest level in the music and entertainment business.
In 1982, when his instruction tenure with Beau Hill came to a close, Ric began to develop an outlet for his own writing and production abilities. That outlet became the touring band, “Saint Germaine.” It was during this time that Ric met Kevin Clock, a studio engineer who had quickly been gaining an impressive reputation for his recording techniques. Throughout that year, Saint Germaine recorded at Kevin’s studio, Colorado Sound. From the quality of these recordings, it was immediately evident that this was a winning combination. Kevin and Ric have been production partners ever since.
The songs recorded by Saint Germaine landed the band a management contract and they began a stream of opening shows in venues around the country for the next several years. In July, 1985, after several weeks of competition, Saint Germaine won The Stroh’s Superstar Talent Search.” That victory was a testament to the creative talent and skill that had developed within this team.
Next: ARRIVAL: 1986-2000