THE STORY
From Food Truck to Forgotten Tracks: Rick DePaoli’s Pop-Rock Album Finds Its Voice
Rick DePaoli, Sicilian-born and raised in Jersey City, wrote 13 songs in 2017 while making a living with his food truck. A singer and guitarist, he recorded them with renowned studio musicians—Michael Landau, Jimmy Johnson, Andy Burton, and Aaron Sterling—with mixing by Grammy-winner Kevin Killen. Trained as a chef, he poured his passion into food, but music was always his deepest love. His songs shine with raw honesty and nostalgic pop-rock, reflecting the heart of an artist torn between music and providing for his family, yet never losing faith in his music.
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His collection of 13 songs was rediscovered in late 2025 by elsewhere music, a US label located in the neighborhood of his restaurant in Jersey City. The songs were newly mastered and was released as the digital album 'Don’t Lose Your Faith' (elsesong 001) in April 2026.
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Honest, melodic, and deeply human, the songs evoke the spirit of '60s and '70s pop rock while speaking directly to the heart.Â
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RELEASES
don't lose your faith
Rick DePaoli's debut solo album, Don't Lose Your Faith, reveals a body of work marked by rustic sincerity and heartfelt, straightforward vocals. These qualities are rare in today's music landscape. DePaoli's honest songwriting evokes the nostalgic spirit of '60s and '70s pop rock.
"Don't Lose Your Faith is a solid mainstream vintage pop-rock album. The craft on this record is completely admirable. The voice reminds me of Peter Criss circa 1976-77, when "Beth" became a huge and uncharacteristic hit for Kiss. Reminds me too of the era when Rod Stewart was singing "You're in My Heart". The playing, orchestration, and recording are all super proficient, too. I don't doubt it could have been a big success in its day. And I don't doubt that there IS an audience for this music."
— Steve Smith (2026)
VIDEOS
Don't Lose Your Faith (2026)
rain (2026)
sail away (2026)
Rick DePaoli Official Website
New Jersey, USA
contact: Â info@rickdepaoli.comÂ